Castor bean (Ricinus communis 'Carmencita') RY-sin-us kom-YEW-nis Genus:  Ricinus

'Carmencita' castor bean is a shrub, usually grown as an annual, that grows to 6 to 10 feet and is well branched, with dark bronze-red foliage and bright red female flowers. Grow in a cool greenhouse or use as a specimen foliage plant in the summer outdoors.

Noteworthy Characteristics: 

All parts are highly toxic if ingested, particularly the seeds.

Care: 

Needs rich, well-drained soil in full sun to perform well. Stake in exposed sites. Under glass, grow in full light and water freely, except in winter.

Propagation: 

Soak seed for 24 hours before sowing in late spring, in pots at 70°F. Plant out or pot on into larger pots before they become root-bound to prevent premature flower production. Plant in the garden after the threat of frost has passed.

Problems: 

Spider mites, gray mold, seedling blight, charcoal rot, bacterial wilt, bacterial leaf spot.

Overview

Height 6 ft. to 10 ft. Growth Pace Fast Grower Light Full Sun Only Moisture Medium Moisture Maintenance Moderate Characteristics Showy Foliage Bloom Time Summer Flower Color Red Foliage Color Colorful/Burgundy Foliage Uses Beds and Borders, Container, Specimen Plant/Focal Point, Suitable as Annual Seasonal Interest Summer Interest Type Shrubs