When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here's how it works.

Jatropha (Jatropha curcas) was once promoted as the new wunderkind plant for biofuel. What is a Jatropha curcas tree? The tree or bush grows in any type of soil at a quick rate, is hazardous, and produces fuel suitable for diesel motor. Continue reading for more Jatropha tree information and see how you rate this plant.

What is a Jatropha Curcas Tree?

Jatropha is a seasonal shrub or tree. It is drought-resistant and simple to grow in tropical to semi-tropical areas. The plant lives for up to 50 years and might grow nearly 20 feet (6 m.) tall. It has a deep, thick taproot which makes it versatile to bad, dry soil. The leaves are oval, lobed, and deciduous. Overall, the plant is not especially visually attractive, however it does get attractive green cymes of flowerets which turn into a tri-compartment fruit with large black seeds. These big black seeds are the reason for all the hullaballoo, because they are high in burnable oil. An intriguing piece of jatropha curcas tree details is that it is noted as a weed in Brazil, Fiji, Honduras, India, Jamaica, Panama, Puerto Rico, and Salvador. This shows how versatile and sturdy the plant is even when introduced to a new area. Jatropha curcas cultivation can produce oil that is a good alternative to existing biofuels. Its effectiveness has actually been challenged, but it is true the plant can produce seeds with an oil material of 37%. Unfortunately, it is still a part of the food vs. fuel dispute, as it requires land that could enter into food production. Scientists are trying to develop a "extremely Jatropha" with larger seeds and, therefore, bigger oil yields.

Jatropha Curcas Cultivation

Jatropha usages are rather restricted. Most parts of the plant are hazardous to consume due to the latex sap, however it is used as a medicinal. It works in dealing with snakebite, paralysis, dropsy, and apparently some cancers. The plant may have come from Central to South America, however it has been introduced worldwide and flourishes wild in locations like India, Africa, and Asia. Chief amongst Jatropha uses is its potential as a clean burning fuel to change nonrenewable fuel . Plantation cultivation in specific areas has been tried, however total Jatropha curcas growing has actually been a dismal failure. This is since the production mass of oil can not equal the land usage by cropping Jatropha.

Jatropha Plant Care and Growth

The plant is simple to grow from cuttings or seed. Cuttings lead to quicker maturity and quicker seed production. It prefers warm environments, however it can endure a light frost. The deep taproot makes it drought-tolerant, although the very best growth will be achieved with additional watering periodically. It does not have any significant disease or pest concerns in its natural areas. It may be pruned, but flowers and fruit form on terminal growth, so it is best to wait until after blooming. No other Jatropha plant care is needed. This plant is beneficial as a hedge or living fence, or just as an ornamental stand-alone specimen.

Gardening suggestions, videos, details and more provided right to your inbox!

Sign up for the Gardening Know How newsletter today and receive a free download of our DIY eBook "Bring Your Garden Indoors: 13 DIY Projects For Fall And Winter".

Bonnie Grant is an expert landscaper with a Certification in Urban Gardening. She has been gardening and composing for 15 years. A former professional chef, she has a passion for edible landscaping.