Water
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Allow excess water to drain completely to prevent root rot. Reduce watering during cooler months or if the plant is in a dormant state.
Overwatering is a common cause of issues.
Also known as American Purging Nut · Arenda · Badecada
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Bellyache Bush (Jatropha gossypiifolia) is an ornamental shrub known for its attractive foliage and flowers, but highly toxic. Native to tropical America.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
High
75% intensity
Prefers full sun to partial shade. Tolerates some shade but flowers best in full sun.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings. Ensure good drainage.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Grows best in warm temperatures, ideally between 20-30°C. Protect from frost.
Low
25% intensity
Benefit from feeding during the growing season, but not essential.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
All parts of the plant are toxic if ingested. Sap can cause skin irritation.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Allow excess water to drain completely to prevent root rot. Reduce watering during cooler months or if the plant is in a dormant state.
Overwatering is a common cause of issues.
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or damaged branches, and encourage bushier growth. Pruning can be done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Lightly trim at any time to manage size and remove spent flowers.
Easily propagated from seeds sown in spring or summer, or from stem cuttings taken during the growing season. Seeds require warm temperatures to germinate.
Cuttings should be allowed to callus before planting in well-draining soil.
Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a cactus or succulent blend. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one.
Repot in spring before active growth starts.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Bellyache Bush (Jatropha gossypiifolia)
Where Bellyache Bush (Jatropha gossypiifolia) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus | Jatropha |
| Species | Jatropha gossypiifolia |
Similar in genus Jatropha
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
