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Ricinus communis 'Carmencita' (Castor bean)

Photo/Illustration: Jennifer Benner

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Botanical Name: Ricinus communis 'Carmencita' RY-sin-us kom-YEW-nis

Common Name: Castor bean Genus: Ricinus

'Carmencita' castor bean is a shrub, usually grown as an annual, that grows to 6 to 10 feet and is well branched, with dark bronze-red foliage and bright red female flowers. Grow in a cool greenhouse or use as a specimen foliage plant in the summer outdoors.
Noteworthy characteristics: All parts are highly toxic if ingested, particularly the seeds.
Care: Needs rich, well-drained soil in full sun to perform well. Stake in exposed sites. Under glass, grow in full light and water freely, except in winter.
Propagation: Soak seed for 24 hours before sowing in late spring, in pots at 70°F. Plant out or pot on into larger pots before they become root-bound to prevent premature flower production. Plant in the garden after the threat of frost has passed.
Problems: Spider mites, gray mold, seedling blight, charcoal rot, bacterial wilt, bacterial leaf spot.

Overview
User Reviews
Photos

Height	6 ft. to 10 ft.
Growth Pace	Fast Grower
Light	Full Sun Only
Moisture	Medium Moisture
Maintenance	Moderate
Characteristics	Showy Foliage
Bloom Time	Summer
Foliage Color	Colorful/Burgundy Foliage
Flower Color	Red Flower
Uses	Beds and Borders, Container, Indoor Plant, Specimen Plant/ Focal Point, Suitable as Annual
Seasonal Interest	Summer Interest
Type	Shrubs

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