Dwarf Jatropha stars as a shrub or tree in SW Florida landscapes.
Dwarf Jatropha (Jatropha integerrima ‘Compacta’) is a glamorous large shrub that belts out scarlet flowers 365 days a year. But it also steals the show as a small tree, too. In fact, when trained to grow in multiple trunks, it earns star status as one of the best-dressed ornamentals you’ll ever see.
A drought-tolerant evergreen with low water requirements, Dwarf Jatropha only reaches eight to ten feet, auditioning well as a single accent choice or as part of a 12-tree chorus. Tiny red flowers pop open in full to part sun, dancing against dark green leaves and attracting butterflies and hummingbirds.
Like any Broadway star, Dwarf Jatropha needs a bit of pampering but not too much. It can be cold sensitive and may lose some of its leaves when temperatures drop. But amazingly, it will still flower non-stop — with or without leaves. Plant your Dwarf Jatropha in a well-drained spot and add extra-composted cow manure. If you’re planting several, place them four to six feet apart. Don’t worry about the tiny flowers making a mess. Like a true diva, Dwarf Jatropha commands attention on any landscape stage in SW Florida as long as it’s given proper care. Just remember that all parts of this plant are poisonous.
Think there might be a role in your landscape for these fiery red dynamos? Contact ArtisTree Landscape Maintenance & Design. Our talented designers will recommend an entire cast of plant choices that are sure to make your Sarasota-area residence a smash hit.
Contact ArtisTree Landscape 941.488.8897
The award-winning designers at ArtisTree Landscape Maintenance & Design are eager to meet with you! Contact Jenni Lassen to get your design plan started at 941.488.8897 or jennil@artistree.com. ArtisTree is nationally ranked and proudly serves Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte and South Hillsborough counties. Need an HOA landscape maintenance proposal? Contact Mike Casper at mikec@artistree.com.
