Ricinus Communis Gibsonii

Description

This striking compact variety of the fast growing caster oil plant will add drama to any border or bed and is ideal as a screen or can be grown in a pot. It has attractive large dark red, metallic palmate leaves with deeply incised lobes. Bright, eye-catching spikes of small scarlet flowers which are attractive to bees and butterflies are followed by prickly seed capsules.

Sowing Advice

For best results, sow seeds in good light at any time onto a good soil-based compost. Cover the seeds with fine grit or compost to approximately their own depth. We recommend germinating at 15 to 20 degrees C. Seeds should ideally germinate in between 2 and 6 weeks although they make take considerably longer. Pot on seedlings before finally planting out into a container or a well-drained spot. Soak seeds for about 24 hours prior to sowing. Sow seeds at a depth of 1/4 inch (6 mm) towards the end of spring (well after the last frost). Seeds germinate at about 70°F (21°C).

Key Facts