Castor Oil Bush

Name

Castor Oil Plant

Latin Name

Ricinus communis

Description

The Castor Oil Plant is a small shrub with waxy stems and large star-shaped leaves and has spiny fruits in an erect spike.

Habitat

This species of plant is an invasive alien from North East Africa and grows along roads and streams in parts of South Africa.

Field Notes

The Castor Oil Plant is a problem where it occurs in South Africa as it competes with indigenous plants for space and nutrients. The plant has toxic qualities that make it even more of a pest.

Kruger National Park - South African Safari