Jatropha gossypiifolia aka Bellyache Bush

Taxonomy

Jatropha gossypiifolia, also known as bellyache bush, black physicnut or cotton-leaf physicnut, is a succulent-stemmed shrub that can grow up to 4 meters in height. It is a member of the spurge family, Euphorbiaceae, and is native to Mexico, South America, and the Caribbean islands. However, it has spread throughout the tropics and is considered a noxious weed in Puerto Rico, and a Class 2 declared pest plant in northern Australia, including Queensland. The three-lobed leaves are initially purple and sticky, but become bright green with age. The small red flowers with yellow centers appear in clusters, followed by cherry-sized seed pods that are poisonous. The plant releases a sticky, yellow, translucent sap when injured. The contrast between the purple leaves and green immature fruits is unique. It can be confused with the castor oil plant, which is usually taller, with larger and more pointed leaves, and larger fruit. Bellyache bush prefers well-draining soil and requires regular watering to thrive. It does best in direct light and should be less than 1 foot from a window. Repotting is recommended each time the plant doubles in size, and no added fertilizers are necessary. Common names for Jatropha gossypiifolia include bellyache-bush, black physicnut, cotton-leaf physicnut, pinon negro, pinon colorado, tua-tua, medicinier noir, medicinier rouge, mamoninha, peao-roxo, jarak ulung, jarak merah, and sibidigua.

Common names

Bellyache Bush, Cotton Leaf Physicnut, Black Physicnut

How to care for Bellyache Bush

Difficulty

Bellyache Bush requires a bit more attention and knowledge to thrive, making it a suitable plant for those with some gardening experience.

Water

Bellyache Bush should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Bellyache Bush loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the Bellyache Bush prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Dormancy

During the cold period, it is common for Bellyache Bush to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more during this period.

Toxicity

Ploi's records do not contain confirmed information on the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event of accidental ingestion of plant material with questionable toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.

Fertilizer

The growth of Bellyache Bush is not rapid and it doesn't necessitate any extra fertilization. By replacing its potting soil once a year, it should receive ample nutrition. It is important to note that plants obtain their energy from the sun's rays, not from fertilizers.


More info:
Wikipedia