Zanzibar Castor Bean

Zanzibar Castor Bean (Ricinus communis 'Zanzibarensis')

The Zanzibar Castor Bean (Ricinus communis 'Zanzibarensis') is a massive, fast-growing ornamental plant known for its gigantic tropical foliage and striking red-tinged stems. This variety is one of the largest castor beans available, making it an excellent choice for creating dramatic height and lush texture in garden beds, borders, and tropical landscapes.

Distinctive Features

Zanzibar Castor Bean is prized for its enormous, deeply lobed leaves that can reach over two feet in width, giving it a bold, jungle-like appearance. Its thick red to green stems and spiky seed capsules add even more visual interest. While visually stunning, all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Thrives in full sun.
• Soil: Prefers rich, well-draining soil with organic matter.
• Water: Keep soil evenly moist; tolerates short periods of drought.
• Humidity: Adapts well to various humidity levels.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 9-11 (grown as an annual in cooler climates).

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Adds dramatic color and massive foliage to garden beds.
• Privacy Screening: Rapid growth creates a seasonal hedge effect.
• Tropical Landscaping: Perfect for adding a jungle-like feel to gardens.

Low Maintenance Care

Zanzibar Castor Bean is an easy-to-grow plant that thrives with regular watering and occasional feeding.

• Watering: Water consistently but avoid waterlogging.
• Pruning: Remove spent flowers and seed pods to encourage new growth.
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
• Propagation: Best grown from seeds started indoors before the last frost.

Why Choose Zanzibar Castor Bean?

With its towering growth, lush foliage, and rapid development, Zanzibar Castor Bean is an excellent choice for creating a bold tropical statement in any garden.

• Massive Foliage: Huge, deeply lobed leaves add dramatic impact.
• Fast-Growing: Quickly reaches towering heights in a single season.
• Low Maintenance: Thrives with minimal care beyond regular watering.
• Versatile Placement: Ideal for borders, privacy screens, and tropical garden settings.

For those looking to introduce a striking, large-scale tropical plant to their garden, Zanzibar Castor Bean (Ricinus communis 'Zanzibarensis') is an outstanding choice.