Where does Jatropha grow?
Jatropha grows in tropical and sub tropical regions, with cultivation limits at 30ºN and 35ºS. It also grows in lower altitudes of 0-500 metres above sea level (see Figure 6). Jatropha is not sensitive to day length (flowering is independent of latitude) and may flower at any time of the year (Heller, 1996).
Is Jatropha native to Africa?
Jatropha is a genus of plants in the spurge family, Euphorbiaceae. The name jatropha is derived from the Greek “iatros” (physician) and “tophe” (nutrition). Most species in the genus are native to tropical North, Central and South Americas, with about a third of the species native to tropical Africa and Madagascar.
Which is the problem regarding Jatropha cultivation?
Pest and disease susceptibility. Control of insects and diseases is particularly one of the most important technical issues which could seriously shape Jatropha cultivation (Figure 3).
How do you grow Jatropha plant?
Jatropha can be planted in a well-drained location. Jatropha is not too particular when it comes to the soil and location. But the plant must be planted in an area where there is partial/full sunlight. The plant can be grown as a mixed shrub or as a hedge.
How long do Jatropha trees live?
50 years
Jatropha is a perennial shrub or tree. It is drought-resistant and easy to grow in tropical to semi-tropical locations. The plant lives for up to 50 years and may grow nearly 20 feet (6 m.) tall.
How do you fertilize a Jatropha?
Prune heavily in spring (late March and early April) and it will fill out quickly to become lush and full. Keep the trunk free of baby shoots to maintain the tree look. Fertilize 3 times a year – once each in spring, summer and autumn – with good-quality granular fertilizer, preferably one high in phosphorus.
Why is Jatropha toxic?
Despite its medicinal uses, the plant is harmful due to presence of toxalbumin called curcin, ricin and cyanic acid, related to ricinoleic acid. Ricin has been shown to exhibit many cardiotoxic and haemolytic effects.
What is the best fertilizer for a Jatropha tree?
Fertilize 3 times a year – once each in spring, summer and autumn – with good-quality granular fertilizer, preferably one high in phosphorus. Supplement with bone meal to promote heavier bloom.
How many types of Jatropha are there?
Jatropha curcasCoralbushJatropha podagricaPeregrinaBellyache bushJatropha unicostata
Nettlespurges/Lower classifications
How often should I water Jatropha?
about 3 times a week
A Jatropha is a tropical plant and therefore also likes moisture. Drought really can’t have it, but wet feet don’t like the plant either. Give water about 3 times a week, the amount of water depends on the size of the pot, but make sure the potting soil remains moist.
What can Jatropha be used for?
The latex of Jatropha contains an alkaloid known as “Jatrophine” which is believed to have anti-cancer properties. It is also used for skin diseases, rheumatism and for sores on domestic livestock [2]. The white latex serves as a disinfectant in mouth infections in children.
How do you make a Jatropha bushy?
Trim regularly to keep the plant full and bushy and do a hard pruning in spring (late March or early April). You can do several hard prunings throughout warm weather if you want. This shrub is drought-tolerant once established. It will do best with a regular irrigation schedule and time to dry out between waterings.
How do you grow Jatropha?
Jatropha plants need well-drained soil, and while they can handle partial shade to full sun, they will flower best in areas with full sun. This plant is not salt tolerant. Jatropha grows best in zones 10 to 11. They are marginal in zone 9B; frosts and freezes will damage them, but they usually recover quickly.
How do you take care of a Jatropha?
What is Jatropha oil used for?
However, the major product derived from Jatropha is the golden seed oil that can be used to produce biodiesel, biokerosene, cosmetic products (e.g. soaps) and pesticides. The side product of oil pressing, i.e. seed meal, can be used as a substrate for biogas plants or returned to the fields as an organic fertiliser.