Jatropha Integerrima

Description

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Jatropha Integerrima (Peregrina) is a small tree or shrub reaching a height of 15 feet and spreads to about 10 feet. In addition, it has an open, symmetrical, rounded, or vase-shaped crown with gray bark. Additionally, its evergreen leaves are bronze color when young. Moreover, leaves are, also variable, glossy, alternate, oblong/obovate, most commonly mould as fiddles  or even as lobes; are approximately 4 to 8 inches long. Additionally,  flowers are borne in upright clusters. Blooms resemble stars, and are generally bright scarlet to vermillion. Measuring about 1 inch wide, and bloom almost year-round; attracting butterflies and hummingbirds.

Furthermore, the fruits are oval capsules, .5 to 1 inch long, containing several smooth speckled seeds. Propagation is mostly through seeds or cuttings. And importantly, seeds and milky sap are toxic.

In cultivation, Jatropha Integerrima (Peregrina) is hardy and tolerates a range of soil types, providing they are well-drained. It has no serious pest or disease problems. Pruning is important to maintain a single trunk if desired, to shape the crown, or to create a colorful hedge. It can be trained as an espalier plant and grown in containers. It is a showy garden, patio or deck, specimen or accent plant, and is suitable for highway medians and in parking lots.