Physic Nut (Jatropha Curcas) is a perennial shrub in the Euphorbiaceae family with moderate care difficulty. It requires drought-tolerant watering and full sun or partial shade light in USDA hardiness zones 9-11. This plant is toxic to cats and dogs — keep it out of reach of pets.

Jatropha curcas is a perennial, monoecious shrub or small tree up to 6 m high, belonging to the Euphorbiaceae family. It is widely distributed in tropical and subtropical regions and valued for its multipurpose uses including ornamental, medicinal, and biofuel production.

Physic Nut

Physic Nut

Jatropha Curcas

Jatropha curcas is a perennial, monoecious shrub or small tree up to 6 m high, belonging to the Euphorbiaceae family. It is widely distributed in tropical and subtropical regions and valued for its multipurpose uses including ornamental, medicinal, and biofuel production.

Quick Facts

Type
shrub
Lifecycle
perennial
Care Difficulty
Moderate
Water Needs
drought-tolerant
Light
Full Sun, Partial Shade
Hardiness Zones
9-11

Safety

⚠️
Not Pet Safe
⚠️
Not Child Safe
☠️
Toxic

Growing Conditions

Soil Types:sandy, loamy, rocky
Indoor:No
Outdoor:Yes
Garden Use:ornamental, biofuel source, hedge

Care Calendar

Monthly care tasks for Physic Nut

Jan
Prune
Feb
Fertilize
Mar
Repot
Apr
Water+
May
...
Jun
...
Jul
...
Aug
...
Sep
...
Oct
...
Nov
...
Dec
...

Expert Care Tips

Pro tips from botanists and plant experts

Watering Tip

Check soil moisture by inserting your finger 1 inch deep. Water only when the top layer feels dry to prevent overwatering.

Humidity Trick

Group plants together to create...

Growth Hack

Rotate your plant every...

Photo Gallery10+ photos

Physic Nut
Physic Nut detail

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Taxonomy

Family:Euphorbiaceae
Genus:Jatropha