Jatropha podagrica image • Photo: Author Edal Anton Lefterov• CC BY-SA 3.0
Jatropha podagrica is a caudiciform perennial succulent herb growing up to 1 metre (3 feet) tall. It features a distinctive grey-green, knobby, bottle-shaped swollen caudex and long fleshy petioles that radiate 3-5 lobed peltate leaves from the stem tip. The plant produces dense clusters of small orange-red flowers on long slim peduncles above the foliage, with explosive seed dispersal mechanisms that scatter seeds up to 4 metres (13 feet). Its milky sap can cause skin irritation and all plant parts are toxic.
Plant Care Overview
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Care Guide
Essential requirements for your Jatropha podagrica
Light Requirements
Bright indirect light
Light conditions can affect leaf color and growth rate. Adjust placement as needed based on your plant's response.
Watering Schedule
Infrequent watering (allow soil to dry between)
Humidity Needs
low humidity
Always check soil moisture before watering. Adjust frequency based on your home's conditions.
Temperature Range
18-30°C (64-86°F)
Native Climate
Native to Central America and southern Mexico
Keep away from drafts, heaters, and air conditioners which can stress your plant.
Soil Type
Well-draining succulent/cactus mix
Fertilizer
Balanced houseplant fertilizer during growing season
Consider repotting every 1-2 years to refresh soil nutrients and accommodate growth.
Propagation
Methods to grow more Jatropha podagrica plants
Seeds, stem cuttings
Plant Info
Characteristics and background information
Central America and southern Mexico
moderate
Up to 1 metre (3 feet) tall
perennial
Symptoms: DANGEROUS. Vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, dehydration, tremors, liver damage. Can be fatal.
Toxic parts: ALL parts are highly toxic, especially seeds. Contains jatrophin toxalbumin.
Indoor Blooming
This plant can produce flowers indoors when given proper care.
Bloom Season
Year-round in optimal conditions
Flower Description
Clusters of small orange-red flowers with both male and female blooms on long slender stalks
Fun Fact
The plant's seed capsules explode when mature, launching seeds up to 4 meters (13 feet) away from the parent plant.
Troubleshooting
Solutions for typical issues with your Jatropha podagrica
Skin irritation from milky sap exposure
Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea if ingested
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Care Guides
Detailed guides for caring for your Jatropha podagrica
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