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Description
Jatropha Dioica, also known as leatherstem or foxtail Jatropha, is a drought-resistant shrub that belongs to the Euphorbiaceae family. It is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. This plant can grow up to 8 feet in height and 6 feet in width, with a rounded and spreading growth habit. It has a grayish-brown bark and attractive, green leaves that are alternate, simple, and oval-shaped. The flowers of Jatropha Dioica are small, greenish-yellow, and bloom in the late spring to early summer. This plant produces fruit capsules that contain toxic seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus | Jatropha |
Appearance
Jatropha Dioica is a unique and attractive plant known for its grayish-brown bark and green leaves. The leaves of this plant are simple, oval-shaped, and alternate. They are around 2-4 inches long and 1-2 inches wide, with serrated edges. The flowers of Jatropha Dioica are small, greenish-yellow, and bloom in the late spring to early summer. They grow in clusters at the end of the branches, forming a foxtail-like appearance. The fruit capsules of this plant are round and contain toxic seeds.
Care Guide
Jatropha Dioica is a drought-resistant plant that requires minimal care. It can grow in a variety of soil types and sun exposures. Here are some care tips for this plant:- Water: Water this plant deeply once a week during the growing season. Reduce watering in the winter months.- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.- Soil: This plant can grow in a variety of soil types, but prefers well-draining soil.- Sunlight: Jatropha Dioica prefers full sun to partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Jatropha Dioica is generally pest and disease resistant. However, it can be susceptible to fungal leaf spot, root rot, and mealybugs. Here are some ways to prevent and treat these issues:- Fungal leaf spot: Avoid overhead watering, remove infected leaves, and apply a fungicide.- Root rot: Ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering.- Mealybugs: Use a systemic insecticide or remove them with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
Habitat
Jatropha Dioica is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It can be found in arid regions, such as deserts and rocky slopes. This plant prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Jatropha Dioica poisonous?
A: Yes, the seeds of this plant are toxic if ingested.
Q: Can Jatropha Dioica grow in a container?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in a container, but it may not reach its full size potential.
Q: Does Jatropha Dioica attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the flowers of this plant attract bees and butterflies.
Q: Can Jatropha Dioica be used for medicinal purposes?
A: Yes, some Native American tribes used the leaves of this plant to treat various ailments, such as headaches and stomachaches.
Related Plants
– Jatropha integerrima- Jatropha multifida- Jatropha podagrica- Jatropha gossypiifolia
References
– “Jatropha dioica.” Arizona State University. https://cals.arizona.edu/yavapaiplants/SpeciesDetail/Jatropha_dioica (accessed March 23, 2021).- “Jatropha dioica.” Missouri Botanical Garden. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=278178 (accessed March 23, 2021).- “Jatropha dioica.” San Marcos Growers. https://www.smgrowers.com/products/plants/plantdisplay.asp?plant_id=2029 (accessed March 23, 2021).
