Castor bean Ricinus communis 'Impala'

Names

• Family

  Euphorbiaceae.

• Synonyms

  Castor Bean, Castor Oil Plant, Palma Christi, African Coffee Tree.

• Common names

  Ricinus communis 'Impala'.

Toxicity

• To humans

  Castor bean, the common name for Ricinus communis 'Impala', is highly poisonous to humans if ingested. The seeds contain the toxin ricin, one of the deadliest naturally occurring substances. Even a small amount, equivalent to one or two seeds, can be lethal if chewed and swallowed. Symptoms of ricin poisoning can occur within a few hours to several days and include abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, which may become bloody, severe dehydration, and a decrease in urine. If untreated, the condition can lead to severe dehydration, multiple organ failure, and death. There is no antitoxin for ricin, and treatment involves supportive care to manage symptoms.

• To pets

  Castor bean, the common name for Ricinus communis 'Impala', is also highly toxic to pets, including dogs and cats. The seeds of the plant contain ricin, a potent toxin. Ingesting even a single seed can result in severe poisoning for a small animal. Symptoms of poisoning in pets are similar to those in humans, including loss of appetite, excessive thirst, weakness, colic, trembling, sweating, loss of coordination, difficulty breathing, seizures, and in severe cases, death due to multiple organ failure. Immediate veterinary attention is required if a pet has ingested any part of the castor bean plant.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Annuals

• Foliage type

  Deciduous

• Color of leaves

  Dark red

• Flower color

  Varies

• Height

  6-10 feet (1.8-3.0 meters)

• Spread

  2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters)

• Plant type

  Shrub

• Hardiness zones

  9

• Native area

  Africa

General Benefits

• Ornamental Appeal: The 'Impala' variety of Castor Bean Plant is known for its striking foliage and seed pods, which add a dramatic touch to gardens.
• Drought Tolerance: Once established, it has a good level of drought resistance, making it suitable for drier climates.
• Fast Growth: The plant grows rapidly, providing quick results for landscapers or gardeners looking for fast-developing greenery.
• Erosion Control: Its robust root system can help to stabilize soil and control erosion.
• Wildlife Attraction: It can attract pollinators such as bees, which are beneficial for the garden ecosystem.
• Shade Creation: With its large leaves, the Castor Bean Plant can provide shade for smaller plants or create a cooler microclimate within gardens.
• Privacy Screen: Due to its height and dense foliage, it can be used to create a natural privacy screen.
• Soil Conditioning: The plant is often used in crop rotations to help break up compact soils and add organic matter.

Medical Properties

• Laxative: The seed oil of Ricinus communis is known to have a strong laxative effect.
• Anti-inflammatory: It has been used to reduce inflammation when applied externally.
• Antimicrobial: The plant has antimicrobial properties that have been observed in scientific studies.
• Analgesic: Compounds found in the plant may have pain-relieving effects.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• Ricinus communis, also known as castor bean or castor oil plant, can be utilized as a natural fence due to its fast growth and dense foliage which creates a visual barrier.
• The plant's thick and large leaves are sometimes used in flower arrangements as a bold and dramatic foliage contrast.
• In some cultures, the stems of the castor oil plant are used in the production of sturdy, though temporary, baskets and containers.
• Its vibrant foliage can be planted in gardens to provide aesthetic appeal and structure due to its distinctive leaf shape and color.
• The castor oil plant's wood is occasionally used as a fuel source, although this is not common due to its lower calorific value.
• Castor meal, the by-product after oil extraction, is employed as a natural fertilizer for its high nitrogen content.
• The plant is sometimes cultivated for ornamental purposes in theme gardens, such as 'poison gardens' showcasing various toxic plants, due to its toxic properties.
• In some regions, the castor oil plant is used in erosion control projects because it establishes quickly and can stabilize soil with its extensive root system.
• The seeds, resembling ticks, have sometimes been used in jewelry making and decorative arts, but extreme caution is exercised due to their toxic ricin content.
• Some farmers plant castor beans amongst other crops as a form of biological pest control, taking advantage of the plant's natural repellent properties.

Feng Shui

The Castor Bean plant is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

The Castor Bean plant is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Power: The 'Impala' variety of Castor Bean plant boasts strikingly bold foliage and vibrant hues, which are often associated with strength and dominance in nature.
• Protection: Traditionally, some cultures have used the Castor Bean plant to ward off evil, due to its toxic properties, as a natural form of protection.
• Uncertainty and Caution: Since Ricinus communis is known to be highly toxic, it can symbolize the need for caution and wariness of potential dangers.
• Healing: Despite its toxicity, Castor Oil, derived from the plant, is known for its medicinal qualities, symbolizing healing and therapeutic benefits.