Jatrophas are members of the Euphorbiaceae. They are found in most parts of the world where there is a temperate climate. They range in form from a geophytic caudiciform (Jatropha berlandieri), to pachycaul (Jatropha podagrica), to large shrubs or small trees (Jatropha mahafalensis).
By Meena Singh
Jatropha curcas: Naturalised in S. India
Jatropha gossypiifolia: Naturalised in most parts of arid India, leaves are bronze and flowers reddish. There is also a green leafed form with yellow flowers. Both are rampant growers when given good soil and water.
Indian Jatrophas:
Jatropha tanjorensis Ellis et Saroja - A semi succulent, shrubby species suspected to be a hybrid of Jatropha curcas and Jatropha glandulifera. From the coastal regions of Southern India.
Jatropha glandulifera Roxb. A small succulent shrub with peeling bark. From lower Deccan, especially in degraded lands south of Madurai.
Jatropha villosa Wight and Jatropha villosa var. ramanadanensis Semi succulent a well-branched shrub from Coimbatore and Ramanad area of Tamil Nadu.
Jatropha heynei Blk. Tuberous rooted with two distinct forms. Found in a number of locations in south India.
Jatropha mahashewarii Subr. & Nayar A tuberous rooted plant from
the southern most coastal region of India.
