Castor Bean, Caster Oil Plant, Mole Bean, Higuera Infernal 'Zanzibarensis'

This species has naturalized in 34 states. As far north as Maine, it can overwinter as a self-sowing annual.

Where it is h...Read Moreardy, it's a suckering perennial shrub that can reach a height of 40'.

It's a heavy producer of light air-borne pollen which is highly allergenic. It's a common trigger for hayfever and asthma. In many people, it also causes a skin rash on contact. The seed pods are spiny.

In California, Florida, and Texas, it's on the official lists of species invasive of natural habitat.

Native to the eastern Mediterranean, east Africa, and India, it's now spread to most tropical areas around the world, where it's commonly considered invasive.

There will always be room in my garden for many Castor Beans.

Zanzibarensis, also recorded as Zanzibariensis / Zanzibar, i...Read Mores the
largest leafed variety often growing to extreme heights. Typically, the all green plant with white veining is found, though also features shades of red within the variety.

While they are poisonous, the seed pods present the problem moreso than the plant itself. Simply remove the pods before they
form and / or mature, and dispose of them properly.

Using common sense, there is no reason one cannot safely grow these tropical beauties in one season, provided a long season is available.

I'm a castor bean lover from way back. I began growing the "giants" a couple of years back and have been very pleased. The first year p...Read Morelants grew to over 10' with the largest leaf about 30" across. Last year, grew to almost 14' with the broadest leaf over 36" across. This year, I started my indoor garden before Christmas, currently have plants almost 2' tall, so hope to get some 20 foot'ers this year.

'Zanzibarensis' is a fast growing annual in zone 5, but my information says it is hardy in zones 8-10. It adds a very tropical look to t...Read Morehe garden, and some people use them as a quick "tree" for shade. Soaking aids germination of seeds.