Contents
Description
Jatropha Integerrima is an ornamental plant that belongs to the Euphorbia family. It is commonly known as Peregrina, Spicy Jatropha, or Firecracker. The plant is native to Cuba and has been introduced to other parts of the world as an ornamental plant. It is a deciduous shrub that can grow up to 3 meters tall. The plant has small, bright red flowers that bloom throughout the year, making it an excellent addition to any garden.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus | Jatropha |
Appearance
Jatropha Integerrima is a deciduous shrub that can grow up to 3 meters tall. The plant has a single stem and many branches that grow in a spreading pattern. The leaves are green and oval-shaped, with a length of about 10 centimeters. The stem and branches are brownish-green and have a smooth texture. The flowers are small, bright red, and grow in clusters. They are about 2 centimeters in diameter and have five petals.
Care Guide
Jatropha Integerrima is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips for growing and caring for this ornamental plant:- Water: Jatropha Integerrima prefers well-draining soil and does not tolerate standing water. Water the plant deeply once a week in the summer and once every two weeks in the winter.- Fertilization: The plant benefits from regular fertilization. Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: Jatropha Integerrima prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Use a soil mix that contains equal parts of compost, sand, and peat moss.- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Ensure that the plant receives at least six hours of sunlight per day.- Hardiness Zones: Jatropha Integerrima is hardy in USDA zones 10-11. It is not frost-tolerant and should be protected from temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Common Pests & Diseases
Jatropha Integerrima is relatively pest and disease-free. Here are some common pests and diseases that may affect the plant:- Scale insects: These insects suck the sap from the plant, causing the leaves to turn yellow and fall off. Use insecticidal soap to control the infestation.- Mealybugs: These insects are white and fuzzy and can cause yellow leaves and stunted growth. Use insecticidal soap to control the infestation.- Root rot: Overwatering can cause the roots to rot, leading to wilting and yellowing of the leaves. Ensure that the plant is not sitting in standing water.
Habitat
Jatropha Integerrima is native to Cuba and is commonly grown as an ornamental plant in other parts of the world. The plant prefers tropical and subtropical climates and can tolerate drought and heat.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I fertilize Jatropha Integerrima?A: Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.Q: Is Jatropha Integerrima frost-tolerant?A: No, it is not frost-tolerant and should be protected from temperatures below 50°F (10°C).Q: How often should I water Jatropha Integerrima?A: Water the plant deeply once a week in the summer and once every two weeks in the winter.Q: What is the ideal soil mix for Jatropha Integerrima?A: Jatropha Integerrima prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Use a soil mix that contains equal parts of compost, sand, and peat moss.
Related Plants
– Jatropha Curcas- Jatropha Gossypiifolia- Jatropha Multifida- Jatropha Podagrica
References
– “Jatropha integerrima.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c599. Accessed 21 Oct. 2021.- “Jatropha integerrima.” Texas A&M AgriLife Extension, https://aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/databases/interiorscape/Jatropha_integerrima.html. Accessed 21 Oct. 2021.- “Jatropha integerrima.” University of Florida, https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/ornamentals/jatropha.html. Accessed 21 Oct. 2021.
