Euphorbiaceae
Jatropha curcas
Physic nut · Mbono
S
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
Jatropha curcas is a semi-evergreen shrub or small tree, growing up to 6 metres tall, with pale brown, peeling bark. Its green to pale green leaves are typically three- to five-lobed with a cordate base, and it produces yellowish-green flowers. These develop into ellipsoid capsules that mature from green to yellow, then black. All parts of the plant, including the seeds, are toxic due to compounds like phorbol esters.
Where it works in Kilifi
This drought-tolerant species thrives in full sun and well-drained, average to poor soils, making it suitable for Kilifi's semi-arid conditions. It is commonly planted as a living fence or hedge, as it is not browsed by livestock, providing boundary marking or windbreak. For hedging, cuttings can be spaced 5-25 cm apart.
Growing notes
Jatropha curcas grows rapidly and, once established, is highly drought-tolerant, surviving with minimal water. It is frost tender and has a productive life of 40-50 years. Caution is advised as all parts, particularly the seeds, are poisonous if ingested, causing severe purging.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: wikipedia.org, pfaf.org, worldagroforestry.org, missouribotanicalgarden.org, gardeningknowhow.com, megsoil.gov.in. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.