1. What is Jatropha?

Jatropha, commonly known as physic nut or purging nut, is a non-edible oil-yielding perennial shrub that has green leaves with a length and width of 6 centimeters (cm) to 15cm, and can reach a height of up to 5 meters (m). It originated in tropical America and West Asia.

Jatropha curcas plant with fruit

2. Are there different types of Jatropha?

The genus Jatropha has 176 species distributed throughout the world. Twelve species, alone, can be found in India.

3. What type of weather is Ideal for Jatropha?

Jatropha grows well in tropical and subtropical climates.

It is known to tolerate a wide range of rainfall (500 millimeter (mm) to 2,400mm per year).

4. What type of soil is ideal for Jatropha?

Jatropha can be planted on any kind of soil – sandy, gravelly and saline soils. It is reported to grow even in marginal areas. However, low yields have been recorded in low rainfall areas while it can be grown with higher yields in high rainfall but well-drained areas.

5. What are the uses of Jatropha?

Jatropha is a perennial shrub with multiple uses. Jatropha is used as traditional medicine to treat fracture, various skin problems, and as purgative. It is likewise used as pesticide, soap, and fuel oil for lighting and cooking.

Because of its strong root system, jatropha can grow almost everywhere. It can hold water and survive the driest season. It is, thus, useful in reforestation and soil projects.

Source: G.M. Galvez, et. al. (1998). Exploitation of the Tropical Oil Seed Plant Jatropha Curcas L.

6. What is the productive life of Jatropha?

Jatropha has a productive life that can span from 35 years up to 50 years.

It starts flowering a year after planting.

Economic yield is obtained from the fourth year onwards.