Ricinus Communis
Ricinus communis
Ricinus communis is a striking, fast-growing tropical shrub from northeast Africa and western Asia, grown worldwide for its dramatic large-lobed leaves and ornamental flower and seed spikes. While its flowers are modest, the plant as a whole symbolizes power, protection, and the duality of nature, holding both great healing and extreme toxicity in the same seed.
Euphorbiaceae (Spurge family)
Summer through autumn (July to October) in temperate gardens; year-round in tropical climates
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: crown of thornss and pachypodiums also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Ricinus communis has one of the longest and most complex relationships with humanity of any plant. Castor seeds have been found in Egyptian tombs dating back to 4000 BCE, and the ancient Egyptians used castor oil medicinally and as lamp oil. The genus name Ricinus is the Latin word for tick, because the mottled, carunculate seeds closely resemble a sheep tick. The name Palma Christi, meaning palm of Christ, was given in medieval European tradition to honor the plant's healing properties. In Indian Ayurvedic medicine, castor root and oil (Eranda) have been used for over 2,000 years for joint pain, constipation, and skin conditions. Across Africa, the plant is simultaneously revered as a medicine and feared as a poison. The seeds contain ricin, a protein so toxic that it remains one of the most potent natural substances known. This extraordinary duality, a plant that heals and kills, that has fed ancient lamps and fueled modern biochemical research, makes Ricinus communis a profound symbol of nature's dual capacity for nurture and destruction. Its explosive seed dispersal mechanism, where ripe capsules split and propel seeds several meters, adds another dimension of dramatic energy to its symbolism.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun; requires maximum sun exposure for best growth and most dramatic foliage; does not flower well in shade
Water
Consistent moisture during establishment; drought tolerant once large but performs best with regular watering in hot weather; avoid waterlogging
Soil
Rich and fertile, Moist but well-drained, Humus-rich, Tolerates a wide range of soils, Neutral to slightly acidic
Expert Growing Tips
Sow seeds individually in pots in spring with bottom heat at 70-75F (21-24C); soak seeds in warm water for 24 hours before sowing to improve germination
Plant outdoors after all frost risk has passed in the richest, most sheltered, sunniest available position; stake in exposed sites as the large plant is susceptible to wind damage
Feed regularly with a balanced or high-nitrogen fertilizer through the growing season to support the rapid, lush growth
Be extremely vigilant about keeping all parts of the plant, especially seeds, away from children and pets as the seeds contain ricin, one of the most toxic naturally occurring substances known
In USDA Zones 9-11 the plant can survive as a perennial; in colder zones treat as a dramatic summer annual
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Dramatic tropical-effect specimen planting for bold foliage impact
- Fast-growing temporary screens and summer hedges
- Subtropical-style border backdrops paired with cannas, dahlias, and bananas
- Container planting for patios and large ornamental displays
- The spiny ornamental seed capsules in red or brown are used in dried floral arrangements
Traditional Uses
- Castor oil, cold-pressed from the seeds and carefully processed to remove the toxic ricin protein, has been used medicinally for thousands of years as a laxative, skin emollient, and for inducing labor; it is listed in the United States Pharmacopeia and used globally in pharmaceuticals and cosmetics
- The leaves have been used in traditional medicine across Africa and Asia for anti-inflammatory compresses and as galactagogues (to promote milk production); such uses are not recommended without medical supervision given the plant's extreme toxicity
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Ricinus Communis
Is Ricinus communis the most toxic plant in the world?
The seeds of Ricinus communis contain ricin, which is one of the most toxic naturally occurring substances known. Just a few seeds can be fatal if chewed and swallowed, as chewing breaks down the seed coat and releases ricin. The castor oil available commercially is safe because the extraction process destroys the ricin protein. All parts of the plant should be considered dangerous, but the seeds carry the greatest risk.
Is it safe to grow castor bean plants in a garden?
Ricinus communis can be grown safely by informed adults who take appropriate precautions. The primary dangers are the seeds, which are highly toxic if ingested. The plant should not be grown in gardens accessible to young children or pets. Gardeners should wear gloves when handling the plant as the sap can cause skin irritation, and should never allow seeds to be eaten or placed in the mouth.
What does the castor oil plant look like?
Ricinus communis is a dramatically bold plant with enormous star-shaped leaves up to 24 inches (60 cm) wide in shades of green or deep bronze-purple, depending on the cultivar. Its flower spikes are erect and ornamental, bearing small cream or red flowers followed by spiny seed capsules that are among the most visually striking seed pods in the plant kingdom. In warm climates it grows into a tree-like shrub.
What is castor oil used for?
Castor oil, safely pressed and processed to eliminate ricin, has a vast range of uses. Medically it acts as a stimulant laxative and is applied topically for skin moisturizing and hair care. Industrially it is used as a lubricant, in the production of biodegradable plastics, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and paints. It has been used by humans medicinally for at least 6,000 years.
How fast does Ricinus communis grow?
Ricinus communis is an exceptionally fast-growing plant. In warm climates with rich soil, full sun, and regular water, plants can reach 6-10 feet (1.8-3 m) in a single growing season from seed. In tropical climates with year-round growth, specimens can eventually reach 30 feet (9 m) or more as mature tree-like shrubs.
Available Colors
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