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Description
Jatropha Curcas, commonly known as the Barbados nut or physic nut, is a small tropical tree or shrub that belongs to the family Euphorbiaceae. It is native to Central America and Mexico but can now be found in many tropical and subtropical regions around the world. Jatropha Curcas is a multi-purpose plant that is grown for its seeds, which are used to produce biofuel, and for its medicinal properties.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus | Jatropha |
Appearance
Jatropha Curcas can grow up to 6 meters in height and has a single stem with smooth gray bark. The leaves are green, lobed, and can grow up to 15 centimeters in length. The flowers are small, greenish-white, and bloom in clusters. The fruit of Jatropha Curcas is a green capsule that contains three seeds. The seeds are brown, oval-shaped, and have a hard outer shell.
Care Guide
Water: Jatropha Curcas prefers well-drained soil and requires moderate watering. It should be watered only when the top layer of soil is dry to the touch.Fertilization: Jatropha Curcas requires regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.Soil: Jatropha Curcas grows best in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH range of 6 to 7.Sunlight: Jatropha Curcas prefers full sun exposure but can also grow in partial shade.Hardiness Zones: Jatropha Curcas can grow in USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Jatropha Curcas is relatively pest-resistant but can be affected by scale insects and mealybugs. The plant is also susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot.
Habitat
Jatropha Curcas is native to Central America and Mexico but can now be found in many tropical and subtropical regions around the world. It prefers warm climates with temperatures ranging from 20 to 35 degrees Celsius. The plant can grow in a variety of soils but prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
Question and Answer
Q: What is Jatropha Curcas used for?
A: Jatropha Curcas is grown for its seeds, which are used to produce biofuel, and for its medicinal properties.Q: Is Jatropha Curcas easy to care for?
A: Jatropha Curcas is relatively easy to care for and requires moderate watering, regular fertilization, and well-drained soil.Q: What pests and diseases affect Jatropha Curcas?
A: Jatropha Curcas can be affected by scale insects, mealybugs, powdery mildew, and leaf spot.Q: What is the preferred climate for Jatropha Curcas?
A: Jatropha Curcas prefers warm climates with temperatures ranging from 20 to 35 degrees Celsius.
Related Plants
- Jatropha integerrima
- Jatropha multifida
- Jatropha gossypiifolia
- Jatropha podagrica
References
- “Jatropha curcas.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science. Accessed 14 June 2021. https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:320404-2
- “Jatropha curcas L.” Germplasm Resources Information Network (GRIN). United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). Accessed 14 June 2021. https://npgsweb.ars-grin.gov/gringlobal/taxonomydetail.aspx?id=19256
- “Jatropha curcas.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 14 June 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280370&isprofile=0&
