Introduction
Jatropha cathartica Teran & Berl. is a plant species belonging to the family Euphorbiaceae. It is a small tree or shrub that grows in the tropical and subtropical regions of South America.
Common Names
It is commonly known as "purgante," "piñón," "cascabela," "molum," "catalina," and "cabalonga."
Appearance
Jatropha cathartica is a deciduous plant that grows up to 3 to 10 meters tall. It has a woody stem that is grey and covered with lenticels and spines. The leaves are simple, alternate, and ovate to lanceolate in shape with a length of 7 to 10 cm and a width of 3 to 5 cm. The flowers are small, greenish-white, and clustered into panicles. The fruit is a capsule with three valves, which splits open when ripe, and contains three seeds.
Uses
The plant has various traditional medicinal uses. Its latex and leaves are used to treat digestive disorders, skin allergies, insect bites, and wounds. The seeds are purgative and have been used to treat constipation. It is also used as a vermifuge, to expel intestinal worms, and as an emmenagogue, to stimulate menstrual flow. The seeds contain oil, which has been used in soap making, lighting, and as a substitute for diesel fuel.
Growth conditions for Jatropha cathartica Teran & Berl.
Jatropha cathartica Teran & Berl. is a succulent plant that belongs to the plant family Euphorbiaceae. It is a tropical plant species that is native to the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico, but it can also grow in other parts of Central America and South America. The plant is also known as "purga de costa" in Spanish.
Light requirements
Jatropha cathartica requires plenty of sunlight to grow and thrive. It can tolerate partial shade, but it does not do well under full shade. The plant should be grown in an area that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth.
Temperature requirements
Jatropha cathartica prefers warm temperatures and cannot tolerate frost or temperatures below 50 °F (10 °C). Ideally, the plant should be grown in temperatures between 65-90 °F (18-32 °C) for optimal growth. In areas with cooler temperatures, the plant can be grown in a greenhouse or indoors.
Soil requirements
Jatropha cathartica grows best in well-draining soil that is sandy or loamy. The pH of the soil should be between 6-7.5. The plant prefers slightly acidic soil, but it can tolerate alkaline soil as well. The soil should also be rich in organic matter, and it should be watered regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. The plant can tolerate drought conditions, but it does not do well in overly wet soil.
Cultivation Methods
Jatropha cathartica Teran & Berl. is a shrub that grows best in tropical and subtropical regions, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. It is highly adaptable to different soil types, but it prefers well-draining soils with a pH ranging from 6 to 8. The plant can be propagated through seeds and cuttings. However, cuttings are the easiest way to propagate, and they should be taken from mature plants in the dry season.
Watering Needs
Jatropha cathartica Teran & Berl. requires moderate watering, especially during the first year after planting. The plant should receive about 30 mm of water every week, especially during the dry season. To avoid waterlogging, the soil should be well-draining, and the plant should not be over-watered. In the case of excessive rainfall, it is advisable to increase the drainage around the plant to avoid damage.
Fertilization
The plant requires regular fertilization to maintain its growth and production. Organic manures, such as compost or well-rotted manure, provide the necessary nutrients for the plant. Chemical fertilizers can also be used in small quantities. However, the fertilization rate should be adjusted based on the fertility of the soil. The plant should be fertilized after every three months to maintain healthy growth.
Pruning
Pruning is essential for Jatropha cathartica Teran & Berl. to maintain its shape, health, and productivity. The plant should be pruned during the dry season to reduce the canopy's size and promote new growth. The pruning should be done at the base of the stem, removing all the dead or diseased wood. Additionally, pruning ensures that the plant does not compete for nutrients and light due to overcrowding. It is recommended to prune the plant after every four to five years.
Propagation methods for Jatropha cathartica Teran & Berl.
Jatropha cathartica Teran & Berl. can be propagated through different methods such as seeds, stem cuttings, and air layering.
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Jatropha cathartica are easy to germinate. Collect mature seeds and soak them in water for 24 hours to soften the outer layer of the seed. Sow the seeds in a well-draining potting mix that is slightly moist. Cover the pot with a clear plastic bag to retain moisture and place it in a warm, bright location. The seeds should germinate within two to three weeks.
Stem Cutting Propagation
Stem cuttings are another method of vegetative propagation. Select a healthy stem of the plant that is straight and has no damage. Cut a 10-12 cm section of the stem just below a growth node. Place the cutting in a well-draining potting mix, ensuring the bottom of the cutting is buried in the soil. Cover the pot with a clear plastic bag to retain moisture and place it in a bright location. The cutting will root within three to four weeks.
Air Layering Propagation
Air layering is another method of propagation that is used for woody plants. It involves creating a new plant from a branch still attached to the parent plant. Select a healthy stem and remove the leaves from the middle section of the stem. Make a small cut through the bark below a growth node around the stem. Apply a rooting hormone to the cut and wrap the area with moist sphagnum moss. Cover the moss with plastic wrap and secure it with tape. After a few weeks, roots will develop at the cut site. Cut the rooted stem below the moss and plant it in a well-draining potting mix.
Disease Management
Jatropha cathartica is susceptible to a variety of diseases, such as leaf spot, stem rot, and powdery mildew. Proper disease management practices are essential in preventing serious infections.
One effective way to manage diseases is through the use of cultural practices. These include maintaining good hygiene practices, removing diseased leaves and stems, and using disease-resistant cultivars. In addition, crop rotation should be practiced, which helps to prevent the buildup of disease organisms in the soil.
Chemical control measures may be used as a last resort. These include the use of fungicides and other chemical treatments. However, before using these measures, it is important to consult with a professional to ensure their safe and effective use.
Pest Management
The most common pests that affect Jatropha cathartica are mites, whiteflies, and mealybugs. Management practices should be implemented to prevent serious damage to the plant, which may include leaf drop, reduced growth and yield, and susceptibility to diseases.
Cultural practices can help to prevent pest infestations. These include regular pruning, removal of plant debris and weed management. These practices can reduce the potential of pest harborage, limiting the opportunity for pests to multiply and spread.
Biological control measures, such as the use of beneficial insects, can be used to manage pests. These insects can be introduced into the crop environment to control pest populations. Alternatively, chemical control methods such as the use of insecticides may be used. However, it's important to be mindful of their potential environmental risks and follow safe use practices.
It is important to continuously monitor for pests and diseases. Early detection and prompt intervention can help to prevent the spread of diseases and reduce pest damage.
