Castor Bean Plant

Ricinus communis, commonly known as the castor bean or castor oil plant, is a species of perennial flowering plant in the spurge family, Euphorbiaceae. It is the sole species in the monotypic genus, Ricinus, and subtribe, Racininae. The plant is well known for its large, star-shaped leaves and spiny seed capsules containing highly toxic ricin-bearing beans. Despite its toxicity, it is widely cultivated globally for commercial castor oil production, landscaping, and ornamental appeal due to its rapid growth and dramatic tropical foliage. It thrives in warm climates and requires ample sunlight and well-draining soil to reach its full potential size.