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Native Plant Alternatives to Ricinus communis (Castor Oil Plant)

Native Plants, Invasive Plants, Ricinus communis, Castor Oil Plant, Castor Bean

Ricinus communis, commonly known as the castor oil plant, can be invasive in certain conditions. While it is native to the Mediterranean region, Eastern Africa, and India, it has been introduced to other parts of the world for its oil-rich seeds and ornamental value.

Ricinus communis can become invasive primarily in tropical and subtropical climates where there is enough heat and moisture for the plant to thrive year-round. It is less of a problem in temperate climates where freezing temperatures kill the plant back each year.

This plant is adaptable and can grow in a variety of soil types and conditions, which aids its ability to spread. It also produces numerous seeds that are distributed by wind and water.

Invasive populations of Ricinus communis can crowd out native vegetation and alter ecosystems.

Castor Oil Plant is listed in the Invasive Plant Atlas of the United States.

According to the U.S Forest Service, Invasive species have contributed to the decline of 42% of U.S. endangered and threatened species and 18% of U.S. endangered or threatened species. Invasive species compete directly with native species for moisture, sunlight, nutrients, and space. They displace and alter native plant communities, degrade wildlife habitat and water quality, and potentially lead to increased soil erosion.

The federal government has estimated that nearly 25 percent of the 20,000 plant species native to North America are at risk of extinction, many of these through habitat loss. You can help reverse this trend by planting great native plants in your garden.

A plant is considered native if it occurs naturally in a particular region or ecosystem without human introduction. There are many benefits to growing native plants. First, these plants are better adapted to soils, moisture, and weather than exotic plants that evolved in other parts of the world. They need fewer fertilizers and pesticides or use less water. Second, they are unlikely to escape and become invasive, destroying natural habitats. Third, they support wildlife, providing shelter and food for native birds and insects, while exotic plants do not.

Guide Information

Hardiness 8 - 12
Heat Zones 1 - 12
Plant Type Shrubs
Exposure Full Sun
Season of Interest Summer (Mid, Late), Fall
Native Plants United States

U.S. Native Plant Alternatives to Ricinus communis (Castor Oil Plant)

Aronia melanocarpa (Black Chokeberry)
Asimina triloba (Pawpaw)
Callicarpa americana (American Beautyberry)
Ilex vomitoria (Yaupon)
Rhus aromatica (Fragrant Sumac)
Rhus trilobata (Skunkbush Sumac)
Rubus parviflorus (Thimbleberry)
Symphoricarpos orbiculatus (Coralberry)

 

 

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Guides with
United States
While every effort has been made to describe these plants accurately, please keep in mind that height, bloom time, and color may differ in various climates. The description of these plants has been written based on numerous outside resources.

Guide Information

Hardiness 8 - 12
Heat Zones 1 - 12
Plant Type Shrubs
Exposure Full Sun
Season of Interest Summer (Mid, Late), Fall
Native Plants United States
Guides with
United States

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