Jatropha
Jatropha integerrima
Ornamental jatropha is an evergreen shrub with glossy leaves and clusters of bright red or pink star-shaped flowers almost all year. It is tough, drought-tolerant and popular in gardens and road dividers, but all parts are poisonous.
Photo: Neelix at English Wikipedia · Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Essential Care Requirements
Light
Full sun
Watering
Low
Water when the soil is dry; established plants tolerate drought.
Soil
Well-drained soil of most types; pH 6.0–7.5.
Temperature and humidity
8–42 °C · Moderate humidity
Feeding
Feed every two months during growth.
Pruning and propagation
Propagate by stem cuttings, seed
Prune to shape, wearing gloves because of the sap.
The seeds and sap are toxic if eaten; seeds have poisoned children. The sap irritates skin.
Top Cultivation Tips
Remove seed capsules where children play.
Attracts butterflies.
Can be trained as a small tree.
Wash hands after pruning.
Common problems
Leaf miners
Larvae of small flies and moths that tunnel inside leaves, leaving pale, winding trails.
How to treat it →PestMealybugs
White, cottony insects that hide in leaf joints and under leaves, weakening plants and spreading easily to neighbours.
How to treat it →PestWhiteflies
Small white flying insects that gather under leaves, sucking sap, spreading viruses and leaving sticky honeydew.
How to treat it →
