Compact Jatropha

Compact Spicy Jatropha (Jatropha integerrima 'Compacta')

Compact Spicy Jatropha (Jatropha integerrima 'Compacta') is a vibrant, evergreen shrub prized for its clusters of bright red flowers and compact growth habit. This heat-loving, drought-tolerant plant blooms year-round in warm climates, making it an excellent choice for adding continuous color to landscapes, borders, and container plantings. Its compact size and adaptability make it ideal for smaller gardens and urban settings.

Distinctive Features

Compact Spicy Jatropha features glossy, deep green leaves that provide a striking contrast to its star-shaped red flowers. This cultivar remains smaller and denser than the standard species, making it a great choice for low hedges, specimen plantings, and container gardening. The flowers attract butterflies, hummingbirds, and other pollinators, enhancing its appeal in wildlife-friendly gardens.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Prefers full sun for optimal flowering; tolerates light shade.
• Soil: Well-draining, sandy, or loamy soil is ideal.
• Water: Drought-tolerant once established; requires occasional deep watering.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 9-11; can be grown as a container plant in cooler regions.

Ideal Uses

• Hedges & Borders: Perfect for low-growing privacy hedges and decorative borders.
• Containers & Patios: Thrives in pots for balconies, patios, and poolside plantings.
• Pollinator Gardens: Attracts butterflies and hummingbirds.
• Accent Plant: Provides year-round interest with its striking foliage and flowers.

Low Maintenance Care

Compact Spicy Jatropha is an easy-care plant that requires minimal upkeep.

• Watering: Water moderately; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings.
• Pruning: Trim occasionally to shape and encourage bushier growth.
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer every few months for continuous flowering.
• Winter Care: Protect from frost in cooler climates by bringing indoors or covering.
• Propagation: Easily propagated by cuttings.

Why Choose Compact Spicy Jatropha?

With its non-stop blooms, compact growth, and heat tolerance, Compact Spicy Jatropha is a perfect addition to warm-climate gardens.

• Year-Round Flowers: Continuous red blooms add color and vibrancy.
• Drought-Tolerant: Thrives in dry conditions with minimal watering.
• Versatile Placement: Works well in hedges, borders, and container plantings.
• Focal Point: Creates eye-catching floral displays in any setting.

For gardeners looking for a compact, easy-to-grow, and colorful shrub, Compact Spicy Jatropha (Jatropha integerrima 'Compacta') is an outstanding choice.