Jatropha Integerrima - Drought Tolerant Shrub or Tree for Zone 10 or 11 Landscapes

Jatropha Integerrima is native to Cuba and the West Indies. It can be a shrub or small tree with a swollen caudex or trunk. The leaves are three-lobed, with the middle lobe by far the largest. 

These plants can reach about 15 feet tall with an equal spread when left unpruned. This evergreen plant attracts butterflies and hummingbirds with its showy red flowers.

Once established, J. integerrima is considered drought tolerant. Jatropha plants need well-draining soil and full sun to flower best. This plant is not salt tolerant. Jatropha grows best in zones 10 to 11. They are said to be marginally safe in zone 9B; frosts and freezes will damage them, but they are said to recover quickly.

Jatropha tolerate pruning well, which gives you options when it comes to shaping your plant.

*All parts of Jatropha are poisonous when ingested and the milky sap can irritate sensitive skin

I was initially inspired by the form of the tree but after learning all these great facts about it, I am interested in growing one in our garden! Let's grow it together!