Also known as Carrapateiro · Castor · Castor Oil Plant
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Castor bean (Ricinus communis) is a fast-growing tropical shrub or small tree grown for its ornamental foliage and as a source of castor oil. All parts are toxic.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Requires at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and flowering.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist, allowing the top inch to dry slightly between waterings.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Prefers warm temperatures between 20-30°C. Protect from frost; it is sensitive to cold.
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Highly toxic. Contains ricin, a potent toxin. All parts of the plant are poisonous, especially the seeds.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Castor bean prefers consistently moist soil during its growing season. Water deeply when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Reduce watering in cooler months. Avoid waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot.
Ensure good drainage to prevent issues.
Pruning is generally minimal. Remove any dead or damaged stems as needed. Pinching back young plants can encourage bushier growth.
If the plant becomes too large or leggy, you can cut it back significantly in spring to rejuvenate it.
Castor bean is easily grown from seed. Sow seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last expected frost, or directly outdoors after all danger of frost has passed. Seeds germinate quickly in warm soil.
Scarifying the seed coat can improve germination rates.
Repotting is typically not necessary for castor bean as it is often grown as an annual. If grown in a container and it becomes root-bound, repot in spring to a larger container with fresh, well-draining potting mix.
Ensure the new pot has adequate drainage holes.
Identify plants like this with ePlant
Snap a photo to get care tips and match similar species on the go.
Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Castor Bean (Ricinus communis)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| kingdom | Plantae |
| division | Tracheophyta |
| class | Magnoliopsida |
| order | Malpighiales |
| family | Euphorbiaceae |
| genus | Ricinus |
| species | Ricinus communis |
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
