Jatropha podagrica aka Bhudda Belly Plant

Taxonomy

Jatropha podagrica, also known as Gout Plant, Gout Stalk, Guatemalan Rhubarb, Coral Plant, Buddha Belly Plant, Purging-Nut, Physic Nut, Goutystalk Nettlespurge, Australian Bottle Plant, and Tartogo, is a succulent plant in the Euphorbiaceae family. It is native to the tropical Americas, but is now grown as an ornamental houseplant in many parts of the world. This unique plant has a large trunk that thickens towards the bottom, where it stores water. It grows slowly and can reach up to several feet in height. Its large leaves grow from the top of the trunk, giving it the appearance of a tree. The plant blooms on and off with orange-red flowers several times a year, even in winter when the leaves fall. However, it is important to note that the sap and seeds of the Buddha Belly plant are toxic and can cause skin irritation or symptoms of poisoning if ingested. Therefore, it should be kept out of the reach of children and animals. Despite its poisonous nature, the combination of its floral beauty and distinctive appearance make it a popular choice for ornamental purposes.

Common names

Bhudda Belly Plant, Bottle Euphorbia, Goutstalk Nettlespurge

How to care for Bhudda Belly Plant

Difficulty

With a bit of knowledge and dedication, you can successfully care for Bhudda Belly Plant, making it a rewarding choice for those seeking a moderate challenge.

Water

Bhudda Belly Plant should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Bhudda Belly Plant 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

Bhudda Belly Plant thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Goutstalk Nettlespurge.

Toxicity

Ploi lacks confirmed information on the toxicity of this plant. If you, a relative, or your pet accidentally consume plant material with unknown toxicity, it's best to consult a medical expert.

Fertilizer

The Bhudda Belly Plant grows at a slow pace and doesn't require any supplementary fertilizers. By renewing its potting soil once a year, it should receive enough nourishment. Remember, plants obtain their energy from sunlight, not fertilizers.

Growth-pattern

Bhudda Belly Plant grows vertically and new growth emerges from the top of the plant.


More info:
Wikipedia