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Codiaeum variegatum

Codiaeum variegatum, commonly known as garden croton or Joseph's coat, is an evergreen shrub in the spurge family (Euphorbiaceae), native to tropical Southeast Asia, northern Australia, and Pacific islands including Malaysia, Indonesia, New Guinea, and the Philippines.^[1]^[2]^[3] It is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant for its bold, leathery leaves that display vibrant colors such as green, yellow, red, orange, pink, and purple, often in variegated patterns that vary by cultivar and even on the same plant.^[1]^[2]^[3] In its native habitat, C. variegatum grows as a woody-based perennial shrub or small tree, reaching heights of up to 3 meters (10 feet) with a bushy, branching habit and a spread of about 1.8 meters.^[2]^[3] The leaves are simple, alternate, glossy, and leathery, ranging from linear to obovate in shape and 5–30 cm long, with colors that mature and change over time, providing year-round visual interest.^[1]^[3] Flowers are inconspicuous, appearing in axillary racemes up to 30 cm long; male flowers are white with numerous stamens, while female flowers are yellowish and petal-less, leading to small, subglobose capsules containing three seeds.^[2]^[3] As a popular houseplant and landscape accent in tropical climates (USDA zones 11–12), it thrives in well-drained, humusy soil with medium moisture, preferring bright indirect light or partial shade and high humidity and temperatures of 60–85°F (16–29°C).^[1]^[2] It is propagated easily via stem cuttings or air-layering, though it requires medium maintenance and is susceptible to pests like spider mites, scale, and mealybugs.^[1]^[2]^[3] Notably, the plant's milky sap is irritant and toxic if ingested, causing potential skin irritation or gastrointestinal issues, and it has limited ethnobotanical uses such as in traditional medicine for swelling or as cut foliage.^[1]^[3] Over 100 cultivars exist, selected for diverse leaf shapes and color combinations, making it a staple in horticulture worldwide.^[2]^[3]

Taxonomy

Classification

Codiaeum variegatum belongs to the kingdom Plantae, phylum Tracheophyta, class Magnoliopsida, order Malpighiales, family Euphorbiaceae, genus Codiaeum, and species C. variegatum.^[4]^[5] This species is characterized taxonomically by its monoecious reproductive system and evergreen shrub habit, traits typical of many members in the Euphorbiaceae family.^[6]^[7] The species was initially described by Carl Linnaeus in 1753 under the name Croton variegatus in Species Plantarum.^[8] It was subsequently renamed and placed in the genus Codiaeum by Adrien-Henri de Jussieu in 1824 in Euphorbiorum Genera.^[8]^[9]

Synonyms and Varieties

Codiaeum variegatum exhibits extensive synonymy, with over 250 names recorded due to its morphological variability and early taxonomic placements in genera such as Croton and Crozophora.^[10] This nomenclatural complexity stems from its initial description as Croton variegatus L. in 1753, reflecting confusion with other Euphorbiaceae species, before its transfer to the genus Codiaeum by A. Jussieu in 1824. Other prominent synonyms include Codiaeum angustifolium G.Nicholson and Codiaeum chrysosticton Spreng., highlighting ongoing refinements in its classification.^[11] Two varieties are currently accepted within the species. Codiaeum variegatum var. variegata represents the typical form, distributed widely from eastern Java through New Guinea to Fiji in wet tropical habitats.^[10] In contrast, C. variegatum var. cavernicola Kiew & Welzen, described in 1998, is a distinct variant endemic to two limestone cave sites in Sabah, Borneo, where it grows as an erect shrub on rubble and guano in shaded, humid conditions with limited light penetration.^[12]^[13] Beyond these wild varieties, horticultural selective breeding has led to the proliferation of over 300 named cultivars, which emphasize exaggerated leaf variegation, shapes, and color combinations not found in natural populations.^[14] These cultivars, such as 'Spirale' and 'Gold Dust', arise from mutations and hybridizations that fix desirable traits, expanding the species' ornamental value while remaining taxonomically under var. variegata.^[15]

Description

Morphology

Codiaeum variegatum is a woody evergreen shrub that grows to a height of 2 to 3 meters, forming a bushy, branching structure in its native habitat.^[3] The stems are erect, glabrous, and multi-branched, often displaying prominent leaf scars, and they exude a milky latex sap when cut, which can cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.^[2]^[7] The plant's most distinctive feature is its foliage, consisting of thick, leathery, glossy leaves that measure 5 to 30 cm long and 0.5 to 8 cm wide.^[3] Leaf shapes vary widely, ranging from linear and lanceolate to oblong, elliptic, ovate, spatulate, and obovate, with some forms featuring lobed or wavy margins and occasional segmentation to the midvein.^[3]^[2] The leaves exhibit remarkable variegation, typically on a green base with accents of yellow, orange, red, pink, purple, or burgundy, appearing as veins, stripes, blotches, or speckles that intensify with maturity.^[1]^[2] These color patterns are characteristic of varietal differences in the species.^[3]

Reproduction

Codiaeum variegatum is monoecious, bearing unisexual flowers on separate axillary racemes that measure 8–30 cm in length and bloom seasonally in suitable climates. Male flowers are small and white, featuring five petals and 20–30 stamens, while female flowers are yellowish, lack petals, and possess a three-lobed ovary with three stigmas. These inflorescences develop at the branch tips, with male and female flowers maturing at different times on the same plant.^[16]^[2]^[7] Successful pollination leads to fruit development, where the ovary matures into a rounded capsule about 9 mm in diameter. This capsule dehisces elastically along its sutures, typical of the Euphorbiaceae family, to release three seeds, each approximately 6 mm in size. The seeds contain toxic compounds consistent with the plant's overall latex-based defenses.^[17]^[16]^[7] Seed dispersal is facilitated by the explosive dehiscence of the mature capsule, propelling the seeds away from the parent plant. However, in cultivation, reproductive fertility remains low, as flowering is infrequent due to environmental stresses such as suboptimal light, temperature fluctuations, or indoor conditions that rarely mimic the tropical native environment.^[2]

Distribution and Habitat

Native Range

Codiaeum variegatum is native to the Malesia region, encompassing Indonesia (including Borneo, Java, the Lesser Sunda Islands, Maluku, and Sulawesi), Malaysia, and the Philippines, as well as Papuasia in New Guinea and the Bismarck Archipelago.^[5] Its range extends to northern Australia, specifically Queensland, and various Pacific islands such as the Solomon Islands, Santa Cruz Islands, Fiji, and Vanuatu.^[5] The species has been widely introduced to other tropical and subtropical areas, where it has become naturalized in several locations. Notable examples include parts of Africa, such as Mozambique and the Comoros, and regions of South America and the Caribbean, including Trinidad-Tobago.^[5] It has also been introduced to Florida in the United States, where wild populations are documented based on vouchered specimens, and to Hawaii, where it thrives in outdoor settings.^[9]^[18] According to the IUCN Red List, Codiaeum variegatum is classified as Least Concern, with the assessment from 2021 remaining unchanged as of 2025.^[19]

Ecology

Codiaeum variegatum is an understory shrub or small tree commonly found in well-developed lowland and upland rainforests across Southeast Asia and the western Pacific, typically at elevations up to 800 meters. It thrives in partial shade on well-drained, humus-rich soils, particularly those derived from basalt, and is more prevalent in the drier margins of rainforest habitats where moisture levels fluctuate seasonally. This positioning in the forest understory allows it to exploit filtered light while avoiding intense direct sunlight, contributing to its persistence in both primary and secondary vegetation.^[20]^[21] The species exhibits several adaptations suited to its tropical environment, including thick, leathery leaves that enhance drought tolerance by reducing water loss during drier periods. These evergreen leaves, often variegated in shades of green, yellow, red, and purple, aid in efficient light capture under canopy cover. Additionally, C. variegatum produces a milky latex containing toxic compounds such as 5-deoxyingenol, alkaloids, and saponins, which serve as chemical defenses against herbivores by deterring feeding and potentially immobilizing insects. Its flowers, though small and inconspicuous, provide nectar that attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies, supporting local insect biodiversity and facilitating cross-pollination for genetic diversity within rainforest ecosystems.^[20]^[1]^[20] Despite these adaptations, C. variegatum faces threats from habitat loss due to logging and deforestation in its native rainforests, which fragment understory environments and reduce suitable microhabitats. However, its resilience is bolstered by effective vegetative reproduction through stem sprouting and cuttings, enabling rapid recolonization of disturbed areas and aiding recovery in secondary forests.^[20]^[21]

Cultivation

Growing Conditions

Codiaeum variegatum, commonly known as the croton plant, thrives in conditions that mimic its native tropical environment, requiring warm temperatures, high humidity, and bright indirect light for optimal growth and vibrant foliage coloration.^[2] The plant prefers daytime temperatures between 60°F and 85°F (15°C to 29°C), with nighttime temperatures not dropping below 55°F (13°C), as exposure to colder conditions below 50°F (10°C) can cause significant leaf drop.^[2]^[22] Indoor cultivation benefits from maintaining humidity levels above 50%, achievable through regular misting or placement on pebble trays with water, to prevent dry air from stressing the plant and leading to foliage loss.^[2]^[7] For soil, C. variegatum requires a well-draining, humus-rich medium that is slightly acidic, with an ideal pH range of 4.5 to 6.5, often amended with peat moss or perlite to ensure proper aeration and moisture retention without waterlogging.^[2]^[23] Bright, indirect light is essential indoors to preserve the plant's characteristic variegated leaf patterns, while outdoor plants in suitable climates tolerate partial shade but may exhibit reduced color intensity in lower light.^[2]^[24] Watering should keep the soil consistently moist but never soggy; allow the top 0.5 to 1 inch of soil to dry out between waterings, reducing frequency during winter dormancy to avoid root rot.^[2]^[22] Fertilization involves applying a balanced, water-soluble NPK fertilizer at half strength monthly during the active growing season from spring to fall, which supports robust growth without promoting excessive legginess.^[22] Common issues include leaf drop triggered by sudden temperature drops below 50°F (10°C), low humidity, or inconsistent watering, and plants may require pruning in early spring to remove leggy stems and encourage bushier form.^[2]^[7]

Propagation

Codiaeum variegatum is primarily propagated vegetatively to preserve desirable variegated traits, with stem cuttings being the most common and reliable method. Cuttings of 10-15 cm (4-6 inches) in length are taken from healthy side shoots during spring or summer, preferably from non-flowering plants to promote vigorous rooting. The basal leaves are removed, and the cut end is dipped in a rooting hormone before inserting it into a moist rooting medium such as vermiculite or a perlite-potting mix blend. High humidity is essential, often achieved by enclosing the cutting in a plastic bag or propagator, while maintaining temperatures around 24°C (75°F) in bright, indirect light; roots typically form within 4-6 weeks under these conditions.^[24]^[2]^[25] Air layering is an effective technique for propagating larger or mature specimens, allowing roots to develop on the stem while still attached to the parent plant. In spring, a healthy branch is selected, girdled to remove a ring of bark, treated with rooting hormone, and wrapped with moist sphagnum moss enclosed in plastic or foil to retain moisture; roots usually appear in several weeks to months, after which the layered section can be severed and potted.^[2]^[25] Seed propagation is rarely practiced due to inherently low germination rates and the tendency for seedlings to not replicate the colorful foliage patterns of the parent cultivar. When seeds are sown, overall success remains limited compared to vegetative methods.^[2]

Cultivars

Codiaeum variegatum boasts over 300 cultivars, primarily selected for their diverse foliage characteristics that enhance ornamental appeal in indoor settings.^[2] These cultivars are grouped by leaf morphology, including broad-leaved forms like 'Petra', which features large, dark green leaves with prominent yellow veins and margins tinged in red and orange; speckled types such as 'Gold Dust', displaying small, oval green leaves densely dotted with golden-yellow spots; and twisted varieties like 'Spirale', known for its spirally curled, multicolored leaves in shades of red, green, and yellow.^[2]^[26]^[18] Breeding of these cultivars began in the 19th century, with early introductions to Europe around 1804 and subsequent hybrid development in Belgium and France during the 1800s, followed by further selection in Asia and the United States for indoor cultivation.^[27] In the 1920s and 1930s, at least 70 hybrids, often called Florida hybrids, were developed in south Florida to stabilize desirable traits. A common challenge in these cultivars is the fading or reversion of variegation in low-light conditions, where leaves lose their vibrant colors and revert to solid green, necessitating bright indirect light to maintain pigmentation.^[2] Hybrids combining traits from various groups, such as those blending broad variegated forms with narrow shapes, have expanded the diversity available for cultivation.^[18]

Uses and Safety

Ornamental Uses

Codiaeum variegatum, commonly known as croton, is widely appreciated as an ornamental houseplant due to its vibrant, multicolored foliage that features bold patterns of green, yellow, red, and orange, providing striking visual interest in indoor settings.^[2]^[24] This plant adds texture and color to interiors, making it a popular choice for enhancing dull spaces with its leathery, lance-shaped leaves.^[24] In tropical and subtropical landscapes, crotons serve as versatile shrubs for hedges, borders, or accent plantings, where their dense growth and colorful leaves create bold focal points in gardens.^[28]^[29] They are hardy in USDA zones 11-12, thriving outdoors in frost-free environments with protection from direct midday sun to maintain leaf coloration.^[7]^[30] Historically, C. variegatum was introduced to Europe in the early 19th century, arriving in England from Indonesia in 1804, which sparked its popularity as an exotic ornamental in greenhouses and conservatories.^[18] In modern interior design, crotons contribute to air quality by absorbing certain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), such as toluene, helping to purify indoor environments.^[31]^[32] Crotons pair well with companion plants like ferns or palms, offering contrasting textures and heights in mixed plantings for a lush, tropical aesthetic.^[33]^[34] They are also ideal for container growing on patios or porches, where their portability allows seasonal movement to protect from cooler temperatures while adding vibrant color to outdoor living areas.^[2]^[35] The diversity of cultivars further expands their ornamental potential by varying leaf shapes and color intensities to suit different design preferences.^[24]

Medicinal Uses

In traditional medicine, various parts of C. variegatum have been used to treat ailments such as wounds, skin infections, stomach ache, amoebic dysentery, gonorrhea, syphilis, and fever, often applied topically as decoctions or sap.^[36]^[18] Leaves are also employed for digestive issues and swelling. However, due to the plant's irritant sap, such uses require caution and are not recommended without professional guidance.

Toxicity

Codiaeum variegatum contains the diterpene ester 5-deoxyingenol, a toxic compound found in its sap, along with phorbol esters similar to those in croton oil, which acts as a powerful purgative.^[37]^[38] Contact with the plant's sap can cause skin irritation, dermatitis, and potential damage to the eyes upon exposure.^[7]^[39] Ingestion of leaves or other parts may lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain in humans.^[39]^[40] Pets, including cats and dogs, are at risk from chewing leaves, which can result in mild oral irritation, drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea.^[41] To mitigate risks, wear gloves when handling the plant, keep it away from children and pets, and seek medical attention for exposure, as there is no specific antidote and treatment focuses on symptomatic relief.^[39]^[41]

References

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Codiaeum variegatum - Plant Finder - Missouri Botanical Garden
It is a woody-based perennial that typically grows to 6' tall. In the St. Louis area, it is grown as a 2-4' tall houseplant or outdoor accent plant.
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Croton, Codiaeum variegatum - Wisconsin Horticulture
Croton is a small shrub used as a landscape plant in tropical climates. The leaves of Codiaeum variegatum vary in color even on the same plant (L) and in ...
[3]
Codiaeum variegatum - Singapore - National Parks Board (NParks)
Growth Form, An erect evergreen shrub with thick, large, leathery, glossy leaves that display an array of colours. Foliage, Leaves simple, alternate, ...
[4]
Taxon: Codiaeum variegatum - USDA
Class: Order: Plantae; Tracheophyta; Magnoliopsida; Malpighiales. Family: Genus: Species: ...
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Codiaeum variegatum (L.) Rumph. ex A.Juss. | Plants of the ... - POWO
Classification · Kingdom Plantae · Phylum Streptophyta · Class Equisetopsida · Subclass Magnoliidae · Order. Malpighiales. View Order Tree opens in a new tab · Family.
[6]
[PDF] Fl. China 11: 267–268. 2008. 51. CODIAEUM Rumphius ex A ...
Shrubs or treelets, monoecious, rarely dioecious; indumentum when ... Codiaeum variegatum (Linnaeus) Rumphius ex A. Jussieu,. Euphorb. Gen. 80, 111 ...
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Codiaeum variegatum
Crotons are woody, flowering, broadleaf evergreen shrubs in the spurge family (Euphorbiaceae) reaching heights of 8 feet in the narrow climate range of their ...
[8]
Codiaeum variegatum | International Plant Names Index
### Taxonomic Classification, Basionym, and Nomenclatural History for *Codiaeum variegatum*
[9]
Codiaeum variegatum / [Species detail] / Plant Atlas
Classification ; Order. MALPIGHIALES ; Family. EUPHORBIACEAE ; Genus. Codiaeum ; Species. Codiaeum variegatum (L.)A.Juss. - GARDEN CROTON; VARIEGATED CROTON ...
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Codiaeum variegatum var. variegatum | Plants of the World Online
nud. Classification. Kingdom Plantae; Phylum Streptophyta; Class Equisetopsida; Subclass Magnoliidae; Order. Malpighiales. View Order Tree opens in a new tab.
[11]
Codiaeum variegatum (L.) A.Juss. - World Flora Online
Synonyms · Codiaeum angustifolium G.Nicholson · Codiaeum chrysosticton Spreng. · Codiaeum variegatum var. genuinum Müll.Arg. · Croton variegatus L. · Crozophyla ...
[12]
Codiaeum variegatum var. cavernicola Kiew & Welzen - POWO
This variety is accepted. The native range of this variety is Borneo (Sabah). It is a shrub and grows primarily in the wet tropical biome.
[13]
None
### Summary of Codiaeum variegatum var. cavernicola
[14]
Croton Codiaeum variegatum (L.) Blume cultivars characterized by ...
Dec 5, 2011 · By fixing such leaf variations, more than 300 cultivars have been produced in the world. Until now, however, only a limited number of studies ...
[15]
PHENOTYPIC VARIATIONS IN CROTON CODIAEUM ...
Croton Codiaeum variegatum (L.) Blume is a tropical-origin ornamental tree or shrub. Over 300 cultivars are found within this species. The croton cultivars ...
[16]
[PDF] Codiaeum variegatum
Codiaeum variegatum. Common name: Variegated Croton. Family: Euphorbiaceae ... The petiole has a length of. 0.2 to 2.5 cm. The inflorescences are long ...
[17]
[PDF] The Master Gardening Bench - UF/IFAS Extension
Feb 18, 2017 · Crotons (Codiaeum variegatum) are among our most colorful foliage ... And interestingly, "monoecious" plants - those with male and ...
[18]
Codiaeum variegatum (garden croton) | CABI Compendium
Summary of Invasiveness. Codiaeum variegatum is a shrub or small tree that is widely grown as an ornamental garden or pot plant. A large number of varieties ...
[19]
Codiaeum variegatum - Useful Tropical Plants
### Summary of Codiaeum variegatum (Wild Aspects)
[20]
Codiaeum variegatum - Garden croton - Socfindo Conservation
Morphology · Stems - white-brown, developing stems are green. · Leaves - thick and leathery, ovate, oblong to linear, the margins entire, lobed or spirally ...
[21]
1346 – Croton, Codiaeum variegatum - PlantTalk Colorado
The croton, native to Indonesia, is related to poinsettia. In their native habitat, they grow into upright shrubs. As a houseplant, they are known for their ...Missing: range distribution
[22]
Crotons: How To Grow And Care For Codiaeum Variegatum
Jul 18, 2023 · Most good potting soils are fine, and an ideal range for the soil pH level is between 4.5-6.5 pH. High-pH rock soils are not advisable, as are ...
[23]
Crotons - UF/IFAS Gardening Solutions
Grown for their fantastically marked leaves; crotons (Codiaeum variegatum) come in a wide variety of leaf shapes and colors which include reds, oranges, yellows ...<|control11|><|separator|>
[24]
[PDF] Propagating Houseplants - University of Nevada, Reno
Croton. Codiaeum variegatum. Tip cuttings from side shoots, seeds, or air layering. Avoid water stress. Use rooting powder or root in water. Change water once ...
[25]
Let's Talk Crotons - Greenhouse Product News
The most popular variety out there is 'Petra', although 'Gold Dust', 'Mamey' and 'Excellente' are also well used in the market. Please see chart below for ...
[26]
Codiaeum variegatum (L.) Rumph. ex A. Juss. (Euphorbiaceae): An ...
This plant species is native to the Moluccan Islands (also called Maluku Islands) of Indonesia and tropical rainforests of Philippines, Papua New Guinea and ...
[27]
Codiaeum variegatum - Plants Rescue
Toxicity: The milky sap of these plants can cause skin irritation. Wash hands if get in contact with the sap. Avoid contact with eyes while handling Codiaeum ...
[28]
How to Grow & Care for a Croton Plant - Gardeners Supply
Feb 27, 2025 · As tropical plants, crotons do best with moderate to high humidity and warm temperatures. Croton prefer temperatures between 60 and 85ºF, often ...<|control11|><|separator|>
[29]
Codiaeum variegatum (Croton) - Gardenia.net
Codiaeum variegatum, or Croton, is a foliage plant celebrated for its vibrant, variegated leaves that come in a kaleidoscope of colors.Missing: Noronha | Show results with:Noronha
[30]
(PDF) Potential and Limitations of Ornamental Plants for Indoor-Air ...
... Codiaeum variegatum 101.1 water supply is good, both being major preconditions for maximal stomatal conductivity Spathiphyllum clevelandii 99.6 and ...
[31]
Current State of Indoor Air Phytoremediation Using Potted Plants ...
hyacinthoides [54] Dracaenaderemensis, Codiaeum variegatum, had a high value in the absorption of toluene Chlorophytum comosum, Dracaena sanderiana, and ...
[32]
companion plants for palms - PalmTalk
Jun 26, 2007 · Ferns look right at home with palms. Crotons are my personal favorite palm companion. No one cares about your current yard temperature ...Top plants to grow with palms.complimentary plants for palm garden?More results from www.palmtalk.orgMissing: Codiaeum variegatum
[33]
Emphasis on Palm Trees, Cycads and Companion Plants
Jul 1, 2025 · These include things such as Ferns, Cycads, Bromeliads, Alocasia, Calocasia, Philodendrons, Anthuriums, Crotons, Ti's, Impatience, Begonia ...<|separator|>
[34]
https://www.junglemusic.net/TropicalLandscape/index.html
[35]
[PDF] Cultivars of Codiaeum variegatum (L.) Blume (Euphorbiaceae) show ...
Oct 18, 2007 · Cultivars 'Spirale', 'Royal', 'Broad Spotted Guinea' and 'Punctatum' had diploid chromosme number of 2n = 60 while 'Sunray' and 'Royal-like' ...
[36]
A Systematic Review on Ethnobotanical and Pharmacological ...
Aug 10, 2025 · The goal of this article is to explore the botanical diversity, the pharmacological profile of C. variegatum as well as its chemical ...
[37]
Croton - Is It Poisonous or Toxic? - Kansas Poison Center
Ingestion may cause minor symptoms such as rash, vomiting or diarrhea. Toxic Parts: All parts. Call the 24-Hour Poison Help Line for Additional Support: 800-222 ...
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[PDF] Croton Oil - Szabo-Scandic
Intravenous (mouse) LD50 0.309 mg/kg. Skin (mouse) 7 nanogram !!(open) ... Shipping name:TOXIC LIQUID, ORGANIC, N.O.S.(contains croton oil). Section 15 ...
[40]
Codiaeum variegatum Care: Croton Plant Care Indoors & Problems
The bark, roots, latex and leaves are poisonous. The sap contains the toxic chemical compound 5-deoxyingenol. Consumption of the plant's seed can be fatal ...
[41]
Croton Are Toxic To Pets | Pet Poison Helpline®
Ingestion may cause mild oral and gastrointestinal irritation resulting in mild drooling, vomiting, and/or diarrhea. Skin irritation may also occur after ...Missing: sources | Show results with:sources