Jatropha gossypiifolia aka Bellyache Bush

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.