The Jatropha genus includes a very wide variety of plants native to the warmer regions of the world. They range from tropical plants to semi-arid subtropical plants that resemble succulents in their growth patterns. Depending on where you live, you might see different types of Jatropha. One of the most popular in the United States nursery trade is the J. integerrima, which is grown for its sprays of shocking and beautiful red flowers.

Like many species in the Euphorbia family, these plants are toxic and should not be located in areas where curious children or pets might decide to sample them. If, however, you have the right location and safety is not a concern, these are wonderful plants, both for their ease of cultivation and their beauty.

Growing Conditions:

Light: It somewhat depends on the species, so ask your garden center staff. Many Jatropha prefer bright and sunny conditions, while others thrive in partial shade.
Water: Provide regular water during the growing season, and reduce watering during the winter. Immaculate drainage is important, and some species are very drought tolerant. J. integerrima is drought tolerant.
Soil: A rich typical potting mix will do fine. Provide lots of coarse drainage material and get into the habit of watering daily.
Fertilizer: Feed with a weak liquid fertilizer throughout the growing season.

Propagation:

Jatropha can be propagated by seed (if you're fortunate enough to get sides) or by stem cuttings.

To take stem cuttings, remove a small piece of stem, dip it in rooting hormone, then pot into a small pot with seedling starter soil. Place in a warm, bright place and wait for new growth to emerge.

Repotting:

Annually, in the beginning of the growing season. Many Jatropha species are naturally small shrubs, ranging up to 15 feet in height. To keep your indoor container plant manageable, trim it to size and possibly root prune older plants. Much larger plants should be refreshed occasionally by removing the top several inches of potting soil and replacing it with fresh potting soil.

Varieties:

Which type of Jatropha you'll find in your local garden center very much depends on where you live. Jatropha are highly variable and grow around the world, so your access to plants will likely depend on what's native to your area. In the Western hemisphere, Jatropha species tend to be semi-succulent and drought tolerant. In the Old World, they tend to be more tropical. Some of the more popular Jatropha species include:

• J. integerrima. This plant grows into a multi-stemmed shrub, but can be trained into a specimen plant. Mature plants reach 12 feet in height, with deeply lobed leaves (although there is often extensive variation in the leaf form). These plants are primarily grown for their displays of bunches of scarlet leaves.
• J. multifada makes an impressive and beautiful houseplant. Sometimes called a coral plant, the leaves are often a foot or more across and very deeply lobed to give a fine, feathery effect. Their flowers are upright clusters of coral colored blooms.

Grower's Tips:

The key to growing successful Jatropha is to achieve the proper balance between moisture and drainage. They typically appreciate a steady supply of water, but the most popular species cannot tolerate being submerged or soaked and will quickly succumb to root rot. Many of the popular Jatropha species make excellent small trees for a conservatory or sunny corner. Keep them well pruned so they don't outgrow their space too soon. Jatropha are vulnerable to pests including aphids, mealy bugs, scale, and white fly. If possible, identify the infestation as early as possible and treat with the leave toxic option.