Rose jatropha

The Rose Jatropha is also known as Nettlespurge. The family contains approximately 170 species of succulent plants, shrubs and trees. Most are native to the Americas, with 66 species found in the Old World. The Rose Jatropha is native to South America. Other common names for the species include: Purging nut, Physic nut and Katamanak (Malaysia).

The plants produce separate male and femaleflowers. Much like other members of the family Euphorbiaceae, members of the genus Jatropha contain several toxic compounds. All parts of the plant are toxic, especially the seeds.

The plant does well in poor, well-drained soil. It is drought resistant.

Traditional Cultural and Medicinal Usages

• This ornamental plant has been used mostly for landscaping
• Jatropha has been used in making dyes and in weaving baskets
• Jatropha has been researched as a biofuel for diesel engines
• Seeds contain nearly 35 percent oil on average and have been used to burn as lamp oil (Philippines)