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
<p>A versatile ornamental foliage plant for Indian gardens and interiors:</p><ul><li>Low informal hedge, border, or edging plant in landscapes</li><li>Colour accent in mixed beds and foliage groupings</li><li>Container and patio plant for balconies and entrances</li><li>Bright indoor accent near a well-lit window</li></ul>
Growing tips
<p>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.</p><p>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.</p>
