Care Of A Jatropha Plant
The Jatropha plant, also known as peregrina, has gained notoriety for its high oil content and production of bio-fuel, but home gardeners enjoy this plant for its star-shaped red flowers and easy care. It grows as an evergreen shrub and can reach 15 feet tall and 10 feet wide. Jatropha is a hardy, drought-tolerant plant that grows well in arid to semiarid regions. It is easy to propagate from cuttings.
Step 1
Plant the Jatropha in the right location. The Jatropha plant prefers full sun (8 hours of sunlight a day), but can tolerate partial shade. Choose an area with plenty of sunlight and well-drained soil.
- The Jatropha plant, also known as peregrina, has gained notoriety for its high oil content and production of bio-fuel, but home gardeners enjoy this plant for its star-shaped red flowers and easy care.
- The Jatropha plant prefers full sun (8 hours of sunlight a day), but can tolerate partial shade.
Step 2
Water the Jatropha on a regular basis during times of low rainfall. The Jatropha can survive on a good rain once a week but should be irrigated in dry climates. Keep the soil evenly moist and let the first few inches dry between watering.
Step 3
Feed the Jatropha plant once in early spring and again in late summer. Use a water-soluble fertilizer or slow-release pellets.
Step 4
Spread a layer of mulch along the base of the plant to aid in retention of soil moisture and control of weeds.
Step 5
Prune back the Jatropha plant in late winter. Cut off any dead or dying branches and remove discolored leaves.
- Water the Jatropha on a regular basis during times of low rainfall.
- Feed the Jatropha plant once in early spring and again in late summer.
Warning
The Jatropha plant contains a milky sap that can irritate sensitive skin. Always use gloves when working with Jatropha. Over-watering can kill the Jatropha plant.
Things Needed
- Fertilizer
- Mulch
- Water
- Pruning shears