Jatropha berlandieri

Jatropha berlandieri, commonly known as Jatropha Buddah Belly, is native to Texas and Mexico. It is an evergreen perennial shrub that makes an ideal low-growing groundcover, growing up to a maximum of two feet in height. It has an ornamental foliage and its poppy-red, crimson and vinous flowers attract butterflies and hummingbirds.

This plant is hardy in USDA Zones 9-11 and is tolerant of seaside and salt conditions. As it is drought-tolerant, moderate watering and well-draining soil should be provided. A mulch around the base of the plant helps to keep in moisture and control weeds.

In colder regions, the plant can be grown in pots. These should be moved indoors during the winter months to avoid the risk of frost and keep the soil more moist than in its outdoor environment.

It's important to note that the sap of this plant can be irritating to the skin so great care must be taken when handling this jatropha.

Jatropha berlandieri is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow, but with its low-stress needs comes a long lifespan. With the right care and attention, this plant can thrive for years to come.

Similar plants:

• Jatropha curcas (Physic Nut, Purging Nut)
• Jatropha gossypiifolia (Bellyache bush, Cotton Leaf, Physic nut, Sibidigua, Tua-Tua)
• Jatropha integerrima, Jatropha pandurata (Peregrina, Spicy Jatropha, Coral Plant, Physic Nut)
• Jatropha mahafalensis (Jatropha)
• Jatropha multifida, Adenoropium multifidum (Jatropha Tree)
• Jatropha podagrica (Gout Plant, Gout Stick, Buddha Belly, Guatemala Rhubarb, Tartogo)
• Jatropha sp. (Coral Plant)
• Jatropha unicostata (Jatropha)