Jatropha integerrima (Peregrina, Spicy Jatropha)

Scientific Name

Jatropha integerrima Jacq.

Common Names

Peregrina, Spicy Jatropha

Synonyms

Jatropha hastata, Jatropha pandurifolia

Scientific Classification

Family: Euphorbiaceae
Subfamily: Crotonoideae
Tribe: Jatropheae
Genus: Jatropha

Description

Jatropha integerrima (Peregrina, Spicy Jatropha) is a dense rounded evergreen shrub, up to 10 feet (3 m) tall and to almost tree-like proportions with age in frost-free climates. The leaves are up to 6 inches (15 cm) long and up to 2 inches (5 cm) wide, green and velvety on upper surface and flecked with purple below, have sharp points on the lobes and are held on long leaf stems. The 1 inch (2.5 cm) wide five-petaled deep red flowers with yellow stamens are held in branched clusters on 4 inch (10 cm) long stalks at the branch tips in late spring and summer – the inflorescence continues to branch and flower for an extended period.

Photo via plantant.com

How to Grow and Care

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. 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… – See more at: How to Grow and Care for Jatropha