About
Clusters of bright red flowers are borne on spikes in late summer and followed by scarlet seed pods. A tender, fast-growing evergreen shrub to 2.5m tall usually grown as an annual in temperate climates. Large, palmate leaves up to 60cm across are deeply lobed and toothed.
About the genus
Ricinus is a fast-growing evergreen shrub, often grown as an annual, with large, palmately lobed leaves and dense spikes of small flowers, followed by prickly seed capsules
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH2
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs, Bedding
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height1 year
Suggested usesArchitectural, City and courtyard gardens, Sub-tropical, Patio and container plants
ToxicityTOXIC if eaten, wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling TOXIC to pets if eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Care notes
CultivationGrow in a peat-free, loam-based compost in full light. Water freely in growth and apply a balanced liquid fertiliser monthly. Plant outdoors when all danger of frost has passed. Stake plants in exposed positions. Plants grown on poorer soils tend to produce flowers at the expense of foliage
PruningNo pruning required, but pruning group 9 if needed
PropagationPropagate by seed, sowing in late spring. Soak seed for 24 hours and sow singly in pots with bottom heat
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to glasshouse red spider mite
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely)