Castor Oil Plant, Castor Bean Plant 'Gibsonii'

This species has naturalized in 34 states. As far north as Maine, it can overwinter as a self-sowing annual.

Where it is h...Read Moreardy, it's a suckering perennial shrub that can reach a height of 40'.

It's a heavy producer of light air-borne pollen which is highly allergenic. It's a common trigger for hayfever and asthma. In many people, it also causes a skin rash on contact. The seed pods are spiny.

In California, Florida, and Texas, it's on the official lists of species invasive of natural habitat.

Native to the eastern Mediterranean, east Africa, and India, it's now spread to most tropical areas around the world, where it's commonly considered invasive.

The first time I saw this plant I knew that I MUST have it. That moment was definitely a "SEE"! I now have about 20 reds and 20 purples. ...Read More I use them as a backdrop for my hibiscus plants.

I initially started my seeds inside but soon discovered that the seeds that I sowed straight into the ground soon caught up with the potted plants. (Very close to 100% germination rate) They definitely grow like weeds and go crazy from the water and fertilizer that my hibiscus get.

Introduced into English gardens in the 16th century. Stately quick-growing ornamental plant with tropical appearance, large reddish-tinge...Read Mored foliage and brightly colored seedpods, a real head-turner. Listed in 1896 catalog of R & J Farquhar along with 10 other named varieties. SEEDS AND SEEDPODS ARE POISONOUS!
Annual, 6-8' tall.