Excoecaria cochinchinensis, popularly sold as Excoecaria Bicolor Variegated and known as the Chinese Croton or Blindness Tree, is a small evergreen shrub from the spurge family (Euphorbiaceae). Its chief attraction is the two-toned foliage: each narrow, finely toothed leaf is deep green on the upper surface and a vivid maroon-to-purple on the underside, giving the plant a shimmering bicoloured effect when the leaves move in the breeze.
In Indian conditions it thrives as a low hedge, border plant, or container specimen, staying neat at around 0.6 to 1.2 m with regular trimming. It enjoys the warm, humid climate of most of India and holds its colour best in bright light with a little afternoon shade. Like other members of its family, the plant exudes a milky latex when cut, so it should be handled with care.
Specifications
| Family |
Euphorbiaceae |
| Native region |
Southeast Asia (China, Indo-China, Malesia) |
| Mature height |
0.6-1.2 m (up to 1.5 m if unpruned) |
| Mature spread |
0.6-1 m |
| Growth rate |
Moderate |
| Foliage |
Evergreen; lance-shaped, finely toothed leaves, glossy green above and deep maroon-purple beneath |
| Flower colour |
Small, inconspicuous yellowish-green |
| Flower season |
Sporadic; mainly warm months |
| Climate zone |
Tropical and subtropical; suits most of India |
Care guide
| Sunlight |
Bright light with morning sun and light afternoon shade; tolerates partial shade. Strong colour develops in good light. |
| Watering |
Keep soil evenly moist; water when the top 2-3 cm feels dry. Avoid waterlogging. Reduce in winter. |
| Soil / mix |
Well-drained, fertile loamy soil rich in organic matter; pH slightly acidic to neutral. |
| Temperature |
Best at 18-32 C. Protect from cold below 10 C and from frost. |
| Humidity |
Prefers moderate to high humidity; thrives in India's monsoon and coastal humidity. |
| Fertilizer |
Feed monthly through the growing season (Mar-Oct) with a balanced NPK or organic feed for foliage plants. |
| Pruning |
Trim regularly to keep compact and bushy; can be shaped as a low hedge. Wear gloves due to milky sap. |
| Repotting |
Repot container plants every 1-2 years in spring, or top-dress when roots fill the pot. |
| Propagation |
Easily propagated from semi-hardwood stem cuttings in warm, humid conditions. |
| Pests & problems |
Generally hardy; watch for mealybugs, scale, and occasional spider mites in dry conditions. |
| Toxicity / safety |
Toxic. All parts contain an irritant milky latex; sap can irritate skin and eyes and is harmful if ingested. Keep away from children and pets. |
| Difficulty |
Easy |
Uses
A versatile ornamental foliage plant for Indian gardens and interiors:
- Low informal hedge, border, or edging plant in landscapes
- Colour accent in mixed beds and foliage groupings
- Container and patio plant for balconies and entrances
- Bright indoor accent near a well-lit window
Growing tips
Plant or repot at the start of the warm season (Feb-Mar) so the shrub establishes before summer. Provide bright light but shield from harsh afternoon sun in peak summer to prevent leaf scorch.
During the monsoon, ensure drainage is sharp to avoid root rot, and ease off feeding. Trim lightly after the rains to maintain a dense, well-coloured canopy. In North India, move container plants to a sheltered spot or indoors during cold winter spells, as the plant dislikes temperatures below 10 C.
