a Physic Nut

Jatropha spicata

Jatropha spicata from  Kenya; photo © by Michael Plagens

Heavily over-grazed rocky slope near Voi, Africa. 28 May 2017.

LEAVES: Leaves are deeply lobed with narrow divisions giving the leaf a star-like shape.

PART-SUCCULENT: Mostly herbaceous but with stems that are thick and succulent.

RANGE: On seasonally dry rocky slopes. The toxicity allows it to flourish where grazing animals are abundant.

FRUIT: Each fruit capsule is three-sided and contains three seeds.

FLOWERS: The flowers are pale yellow and rather small.

UNARMED. However, the sap can be toxic if ingested or contacts skin.

Euphorbiaceae -- Spurge Family

More Information:


Kenya Natural History

Copyright Michael J. Plagens, Created on 18 July 2017.