Jatropha macrorhiza
Ragged Nettle Spurge
Most Jatrophas are subtropical shrubby or arborescent (tree-like) plants. This species is very unusual for a Jatropha, growing from a tuberous root, and being a deciduous perennial shrub. In a growing season this plant will reach about 2-3’ tall and 3-4’ wide. Pink flowers emerge in clusters on the top of the plant followed by 3-lobed capsules with fat seeds.
Grow in full sun to light shade, but perhaps avoid reflective heat in the summer in low desert locations. Supply plants with moderate water in warm weather, and ensure good drainagae. This plant is probably hardy down to about 0°F. But just be aware that it dies to the ground in winter. Don’t forget where you planted it!
The flowers attract numerous pollinating insects. Larval food plant for the magnificent cinta moth (Rothschildia cincta).
Jatropha comes from the Greek iatros for doctor and trophe for food, while macrorhiza means large root.
Found on mesas and grasslands; 3,500-7,500 ft. in Arizona, southwestern New Mexico, southern Texas; south into northern Mexico.