Jatropha, Nettlespurge Plant

Description

It has a short trunk that is swollen at the base, erect red clusters of small flowers borne most of the year, and three- to five-lobed palmate (fanlike) leaves. Much like other members of the family Euphorbiaceae, members of the genus Jatropha contain several toxic compounds. It is a evergreen woody shrub. Its leaves are 3-lobed, variegated with yellowish blotches. The flowers are borne in clusters on long stalks. anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anti-oxidant, anti-diarrheal, anti-bacterial properties.

Caring of Jatropha Plant

Sunlight

• Keep the plant in full sunlight or in semi-shade
• Protect the plant from direct harsh sunlight during summers.

Soil

• The soil should be well drained and fertile rich in organic content.

Watering

• Poke your finger/plain small stick into the soil to check the moisture.
• Water when top soil (1-2 inches) feels dry to touch.
• Water thoroughly in the summer and reduce watering in winter and rainy season.

Application of Fertilizer

• During the main growing season feed the plant with organic fertilizer once a month.
• Loosen the topsoil without disturbing the roots of the plant so it can uptake the nutrients and moisture easily.

Re-potting

• When a plant outgrows in current pot, re-pot with fresh potting soil and some fertilizer.
• Do the re-potting late evening and keep the plant in shady area for 2 to 3 days and then move the plant in its suitable climatic condition.

Plant Protection

• Remove dead, infected or damaged plant parts and dispose them away from the planting area.
• Spray Neem, Eucalyptus or Citrus oil for any insect/pest attack, as a primary treatment.

Don’ts

• Do not over-water the plant especially when pot does not have drainage holes.

Special Feature

Attractive foliage.