Jatropha Podagrica
Jatropha podagrica, also known as the Buddha Belly plant or Gout Plant, is a unique succulent shrub that adds a touch of the tropics to any collection. It's native to Central America and is prized for its unusual swollen trunk, large leaves, and vibrant coral-red flowers.
Here's a closer look at this fascinating plant:
Appearance:
Caudex: The most distinctive feature of Jatropha podagrica is its swollen, bottle-shaped trunk, or caudex. This caudex serves as a water storage organ, allowing the plant to survive in dry conditions. It has a grayish-brown bark and can grow quite large, giving the plant a distinctive "pot-bellied" appearance.
Leaves: The leaves are large, lobed, and somewhat fig-shaped. They are a bright green color and add a tropical feel to the plant's overall appearance. The leaves are deciduous, meaning they fall off during the dormant season (typically winter).
Flowers: Jatropha podagrica produces clusters of small, coral-red flowers that resemble miniature coral bells. The flowers are held above the foliage on long stalks, adding a vibrant splash of color to the plant. It can bloom on and off throughout the year, even during the winter months when the leaves have fallen.
Care
Light: Jatropha podagrica thrives in full sun to partial shade. It needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth and flowering.
Soil: It prefers well-draining soil, such as a cactus or succulent mix. Good drainage is crucial to prevent root rot.
Watering: Water moderately during the growing season, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Reduce watering 1 in the winter when the plant is dormant.
Temperature: This plant is best suited for warm climates (USDA zones 10-12). It can tolerate some drought and heat but is not frost-tolerant.
Growing Tips
Potting: Choose a pot with drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. A terracotta pot is a good choice as it allows for better air circulation and drainage.
Fertilizing: Fertilize sparingly during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Pruning: Prune to shape as needed and remove any dead or damaged branches.
Propagation: Jatropha podagrica can be propagated from seed or stem cuttings.
Uses
Ornamental Plant: It is primarily used as an ornamental plant, prized for its unique caudex, tropical foliage, and vibrant flowers. It makes a striking focal point in gardens, patios, and containers.
Houseplant: It can also be grown as a houseplant, adding a touch of the exotic to indoor spaces.
Interesting Facts
Toxicity: All parts of Jatropha podagrica are toxic if ingested, so it's important to keep it out of reach of children and pets. The sap can also cause skin irritation, so it's best to wear gloves when handling the plant.
Medicinal Uses: Despite its toxicity, Jatropha podagrica has some traditional medicinal uses. The sap has been used to treat skin ailments and the seeds have been used as a purgative, but it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before using any part of this plant medicinally.
Biofuel Potential: Jatropha podagrica is being investigated as a potential source of biofuel due to its oil-rich seeds.
Jatropha podagrica is a fascinating and rewarding plant to grow. Its unique appearance, vibrant flowers, and adaptability to warm climates make it a popular choice for succulent enthusiasts and gardeners alike.
Want your succulent with a pot?
We usually ship bare root for freshness and to keep costs low, but we’re happy to pot your plant on request!
Just click here to make your request.
Please note — NT, TAS, WA customers: please contact us before placing your order due to additional quarantine charges associated with these locations. View Shipping options
Jatropha podagrica, also known as the Buddha Belly plant or Gout Plant, is a unique succulent shrub that adds a touch of the tropics to any collection. It's native to Central America and is prized for its unusual swollen trunk, large leaves, and vibrant coral-red flowers.
Here's a closer look at this fascinating plant:
Appearance:
Caudex: The most distinctive feature of Jatropha podagrica is its swollen, bottle-shaped trunk, or caudex. This caudex serves as a water storage organ, allowing the plant to survive in dry conditions. It has a grayish-brown bark and can grow quite large, giving the plant a distinctive "pot-bellied" appearance.
Leaves: The leaves are large, lobed, and somewhat fig-shaped. They are a bright green color and add a tropical feel to the plant's overall appearance. The leaves are deciduous, meaning they fall off during the dormant season (typically winter).
Flowers: Jatropha podagrica produces clusters of small, coral-red flowers that resemble miniature coral bells. The flowers are held above the foliage on long stalks, adding a vibrant splash of color to the plant. It can bloom on and off throughout the year, even during the winter months when the leaves have fallen.
Care
Light: Jatropha podagrica thrives in full sun to partial shade. It needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth and flowering.
Soil: It prefers well-draining soil, such as a cactus or succulent mix. Good drainage is crucial to prevent root rot.
Watering: Water moderately during the growing season, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Reduce watering 1 in the winter when the plant is dormant.
Temperature: This plant is best suited for warm climates (USDA zones 10-12). It can tolerate some drought and heat but is not frost-tolerant.
Growing Tips
Potting: Choose a pot with drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. A terracotta pot is a good choice as it allows for better air circulation and drainage.
Fertilizing: Fertilize sparingly during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Pruning: Prune to shape as needed and remove any dead or damaged branches.
Propagation: Jatropha podagrica can be propagated from seed or stem cuttings.
Uses
Ornamental Plant: It is primarily used as an ornamental plant, prized for its unique caudex, tropical foliage, and vibrant flowers. It makes a striking focal point in gardens, patios, and containers.
Houseplant: It can also be grown as a houseplant, adding a touch of the exotic to indoor spaces.
Interesting Facts
Toxicity: All parts of Jatropha podagrica are toxic if ingested, so it's important to keep it out of reach of children and pets. The sap can also cause skin irritation, so it's best to wear gloves when handling the plant.
Medicinal Uses: Despite its toxicity, Jatropha podagrica has some traditional medicinal uses. The sap has been used to treat skin ailments and the seeds have been used as a purgative, but it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before using any part of this plant medicinally.
Biofuel Potential: Jatropha podagrica is being investigated as a potential source of biofuel due to its oil-rich seeds.
Jatropha podagrica is a fascinating and rewarding plant to grow. Its unique appearance, vibrant flowers, and adaptability to warm climates make it a popular choice for succulent enthusiasts and gardeners alike.
Want your succulent with a pot?
We usually ship bare root for freshness and to keep costs low, but we’re happy to pot your plant on request!
Just click here to make your request.
Please note — NT, TAS, WA customers: please contact us before placing your order due to additional quarantine charges associated with these locations. View Shipping options
Jatropha podagrica, also known as the Buddha Belly plant or Gout Plant, is a unique succulent shrub that adds a touch of the tropics to any collection. It's native to Central America and is prized for its unusual swollen trunk, large leaves, and vibrant coral-red flowers.
Here's a closer look at this fascinating plant:
Appearance:
Caudex: The most distinctive feature of Jatropha podagrica is its swollen, bottle-shaped trunk, or caudex. This caudex serves as a water storage organ, allowing the plant to survive in dry conditions. It has a grayish-brown bark and can grow quite large, giving the plant a distinctive "pot-bellied" appearance.
Leaves: The leaves are large, lobed, and somewhat fig-shaped. They are a bright green color and add a tropical feel to the plant's overall appearance. The leaves are deciduous, meaning they fall off during the dormant season (typically winter).
Flowers: Jatropha podagrica produces clusters of small, coral-red flowers that resemble miniature coral bells. The flowers are held above the foliage on long stalks, adding a vibrant splash of color to the plant. It can bloom on and off throughout the year, even during the winter months when the leaves have fallen.
Care
Light: Jatropha podagrica thrives in full sun to partial shade. It needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth and flowering.
Soil: It prefers well-draining soil, such as a cactus or succulent mix. Good drainage is crucial to prevent root rot.
Watering: Water moderately during the growing season, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Reduce watering 1 in the winter when the plant is dormant.
Temperature: This plant is best suited for warm climates (USDA zones 10-12). It can tolerate some drought and heat but is not frost-tolerant.
Growing Tips
Potting: Choose a pot with drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. A terracotta pot is a good choice as it allows for better air circulation and drainage.
Fertilizing: Fertilize sparingly during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Pruning: Prune to shape as needed and remove any dead or damaged branches.
Propagation: Jatropha podagrica can be propagated from seed or stem cuttings.
Uses
Ornamental Plant: It is primarily used as an ornamental plant, prized for its unique caudex, tropical foliage, and vibrant flowers. It makes a striking focal point in gardens, patios, and containers.
Houseplant: It can also be grown as a houseplant, adding a touch of the exotic to indoor spaces.
Interesting Facts
Toxicity: All parts of Jatropha podagrica are toxic if ingested, so it's important to keep it out of reach of children and pets. The sap can also cause skin irritation, so it's best to wear gloves when handling the plant.
Medicinal Uses: Despite its toxicity, Jatropha podagrica has some traditional medicinal uses. The sap has been used to treat skin ailments and the seeds have been used as a purgative, but it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before using any part of this plant medicinally.
Biofuel Potential: Jatropha podagrica is being investigated as a potential source of biofuel due to its oil-rich seeds.
Jatropha podagrica is a fascinating and rewarding plant to grow. Its unique appearance, vibrant flowers, and adaptability to warm climates make it a popular choice for succulent enthusiasts and gardeners alike.
Want your succulent with a pot?
We usually ship bare root for freshness and to keep costs low, but we’re happy to pot your plant on request!
Just click here to make your request.
Please note — NT, TAS, WA customers: please contact us before placing your order due to additional quarantine charges associated with these locations. View Shipping options
