Buddha Belly Plant (Jatropha podagrica): Swollen Stem and Coral Flowers

Buddha belly plant (Jatropha podagrica), also called bottleplant shrub, is a distinctive succulent with a greatly swollen, knobby, bottle-shaped stem (caudex) topped by a few large, lobed, peltate leaves. It bears bright coral-red flowers in clusters above the foliage nearly year-round in warm conditions.

Features

The caudex stores water and can reach 12–18 inches in diameter. The plant grows 2–3 feet tall. The milky sap is toxic and irritating. It is a conversation piece for containers and rock gardens.

Care

Full sun to light shade; very well-drained soil. Water sparingly—allow to dry completely. Protect from frost (zones 10–11). Fertilize lightly in spring. Handle with gloves.

Taxonomy

• Family: Euphorbiaceae
• Genus: Jatropha
• Species: podagrica