Physic nut, Barbados nut, Purging nut
jatropha curcas
Also known as: ["Physic nut","Barbados nut","Purging nut","Jatropha curcas L."]
Overview
A small tree or shrub native to the tropical regions of the Americas, known for its toxic seeds used in biofuel production and traditional medicine.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","medicinal use","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus: | Jatropha |
| Botanical Name: | Jatropha curcas |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in tropical or subtropical regions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with organic matter. Cactus or succulent mix is ideal.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate to heavy, depending on desired shape and size.
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 plants gradually to intense sunlight if moved from shade. Protect from harsh midday sun in hot climates to prevent scorching. Indoors, place near a south-facing window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains in intense summer sun; monitor for sunburn signs.
Watering
every 7–14 days, depending on climate and soil conditions
Water thoroughly but infrequently; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.5).
Use a mix with good aeration; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Thrives in warm conditions (20–30°C). Tolerates mild frosts but prefers temperatures above 10°C.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during active growth
Fertilize only during active growth; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent salt buildup; flush soil occasionally to remove excess salts.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds. Stem cuttings are faster and more reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 10–15 cm cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (20–25°C), humid, and bright but indirect light. Protect from direct sun until roots develop.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots may form in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting bottle, plastic wrap.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity with a cover; avoid overwatering the cutting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back stems to a lateral branch or bud. Remove crossing or crowded branches to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to shape the plant, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or diseased growth. Also prune to control size in containers.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant (e.g., rubbing alcohol).
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune during dormancy; make clean cuts; remove dead/diseased wood; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–5 cm in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot. Necessary for container-grown plants to maintain vigor.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in shade for a few days.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water until it drains from the bottom, then allow the soil to dry before the next watering. Early morning or late evening watering is ideal to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–14 days during active growth, reducing frequency to once a month or less in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil dryness.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in cold stress; wilting or scorched leaves in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or drop; prolonged cold can cause dieback.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; apply a thick mulch to insulate roots; protect from frost with a cover or indoor placement.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or scorch; growth may slow due to water stress.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; mist leaves in the morning to cool the plant.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid contact with roots; water after fertilizing.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) in spring and summer. Dilute liquid fertilizer to half strength if used monthly.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicJatropha curcas is highly toxic to cats due to its content of curcin and phorbol esters. Cats are particularly sensitive to these compounds, which can cause severe gastrointestinal distress, neurological impairment, and organ failure, potentially leading to death.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe toxic compounds in Jatropha curcas, particularly curcin and phorbol esters, are harmful to dogs. Ingestion can cause severe gastrointestinal upset, neurological symptoms, and organ damage, with potential for fatal outcomes due to the plant's potent cytotoxic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicJatropha curcas contains highly toxic compounds, primarily curcin, a ribosome-inactivating protein, and phorbol esters, which are potent skin irritants and carcinogens. Ingestion can lead to severe gastrointestinal distress, liver damage, and potentially fatal poisoning due to the inhibition of protein synthesis in cells.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Jatropha curcas toxic to humans?
A: Yes, all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested, particularly the seeds.
Q: Can Jatropha curcas be grown for biofuel?
A: Yes, its seeds are rich in oil and are used in biodiesel production.
Q: Does Jatropha curcas attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it produces flowers that attract bees, butterflies, and birds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Euphorbiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–14 days, depending o |
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