Jatropha berlandieri (Jatropha Buddah Belly)

Jatropha berlandieri (Jatropha Buddah Belly) with rounded base and divided foliage in container.

Botanical name: Jatropha berlandieri

Common names: Jatropha Buddah Belly, Baseball Plant

Family: Euphorbiaceae

Origin: Texas and Mexico

USDA Zone: 9-10

Plant form: Groundcover or low-growing; plant with caudex

Sun exposure: Full sun or bright light indoor; semi-shade

Cold tolerance: Frost sensitive. Protect from freezing.

Watering: Moderate; tolerates dry conditions

Flower color: Red, crimson, vinous

Suitable for: Outdoors in the suitable USDA zone; small gardens, containers, and indoor growing

Foliage color: Ornamental foliage

Irritating or toxic: Irritating

Wildlife: Attracts butterflies and hummingbirds

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.