Jatropha - "Buddha's belly"

Jatropha – Photo

Seeing once a blooming gouty jatropha, really want to buy this. But I found out, that she sheds her leaves for the winter. For me, such a succulent is a mystery. Or am I worrying for nothing?

Halyna SHIRKO, r. Polotsk

This species with thickened caudex is truly deciduous.. To prepare for a dormant period, succulents shed their leaves in autumn. It's not worth it to be afraid. Better keep the plant cool from October to February (+15-18 city.), practically no watering and no fertilizing. Resume watering with the beginning of bud growth in spring.

CAUTION WITH MOISTURE

Jatropha at home

Important to remember, that the succulent does not tolerate waterlogging. Therefore, drainage in a shallow pot should be a layer of at least 3-4 cm. The substrate can be used ready for cacti or a mixture of sod land, sheet and sand (1:1:1) with the addition of brick chips.

The surface of the soil is lightly covered with sphagnum moss and kept moist..

LONG-LIVER

In room conditions, gouty jatropha lives more than 15 years old, reaching a height 50-90 cm. Planting in a cramped pot inhibits vertical growth, allowing for more compact dimensions.

The plant is not often transplanted (about every 2-3 of the year). And you don't have to take a bigger pot. It is important to only partially replace the soil, without destroying the root ball, and update drainage.

Yatrfoa – planting and care

NUANCES IN THE CONTENT OF IATROFA

Jatropha is afraid of drafts. Feels good on the east and west windowsills, in the south it is necessary to shade from the midday sun.

Succulents do not need high humidity. Leaves are not sprayed, just wipe off the dust with a dampened sponge or cloth.

© Author: Rita BRILLIANTOVA, biologist, collector, r. Moscow

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