Peregrina, Scarlet Bush, Fire Bush
jatropha integerrima
Also known as: ["Jatropha cuneata","Jatropha multifida"]
Overview
A small evergreen shrub or small tree native to the Caribbean and Central America, known for its vibrant red flowers and toxic sap.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus: | Jatropha |
| Botanical Name: | Jatropha integerrima Jacq. |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in tropical or subtropical regions, or as a container plant in temperate climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly sandy or loamy soil with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in spring; light pruning can be done as needed throughout the growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; can be pruned back by one-third to encourage fuller growth.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure adequate light indoors with supplemental grow lights if needed.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid placing in dark corners.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, every 14–21 days in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with compost annually.
Temperature
Thrives in warm conditions (65–85°F / 18–29°C); prefers stable temperatures; sensitive to frost.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings; seeds (less common for home growers).
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F / 21–27°C), humid, and bright but indirect light; protect from direct sun.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix (e.g., cactus mix with perlite or sand).
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 3–6 weeks; establish in new pot within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil mix, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective pruning of stems; pinch back tips to promote branching; remove crossing or crowded branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or overgrown stems; best done in spring before new growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves (plant has toxic sap), clean cutting surfaces.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; wear gloves; prune in early morning; remove dead or diseased wood first.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider in diameter) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for root health and growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage holes; use fresh soil mix; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water early in the morning or late in the evening to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, stunted growth, or wilting in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Leaves may wilt, turn yellow, or drop; growth slows or halts; prolonged cold can cause root damage or death.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; use a space heater if necessary; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow; soil may dry out too quickly.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer correctly; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer); reduce or stop in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly sensitive to the toxic compounds in Jatropha integerrima. Ingestion can result in severe gastrointestinal distress and systemic effects, with the seeds posing the greatest risk due to their high concentration of toxins.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Jatropha integerrima can lead to severe gastrointestinal upset and potential systemic toxicity due to the presence of phorbol esters and other toxic compounds. The seeds are especially dangerous and can cause significant health issues.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicJatropha integerrima contains toxic compounds, primarily phorbol esters and diterpenes, which can cause severe gastrointestinal distress and systemic toxicity upon ingestion. The plant's effects are particularly potent in the seeds, which are highly toxic even in small quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Jatropha integerrima toxic to pets?
A: Yes, all parts of the plant are toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should Jatropha integerrima be watered?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce watering in winter.
Q: Does Jatropha integerrima attract wildlife?
A: Yes, its flowers attract bees, butterflies, and birds, making it a good choice for wildlife gardens.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Euphorbiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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