Sebastiana pavoniana (Mexican Jumping Bean Shrub): Toxicity and Sourcing

The shrub Sebastiana pavoniana, host of the Mexican jumping bean moth, belongs to the Euphorbia family. Like many euphorbias, it exudes a milky, toxic sap when cut.

Toxicity Concerns

• The sap can cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
• Ingestion is dangerous and potentially lethal, especially for pets and small children.
• With proper supervision and education (teaching children not to eat plants), the shrub can be safely grown in a school garden.

Sourcing the Plant

Sebastiana pavoniana is native to a limited region in Mexico and is rarely offered commercially. The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum may provide leads on obtaining seeds or plants. Alternatively, seek out specialized native-plant nurseries in the Southwest.

Educational Value

The jumping bean phenomenon offers a unique opportunity to teach insect-plant interactions, metamorphosis, and desert ecology. With appropriate precautions, the plant can be a fascinating addition to a school garden.