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Ricinus communis Species: Ricinus communis Family: Euphorbiaceae Common name: Castor Oil Plant, Castor Bean Height: 150cm (5 ft.) Grow as: annual Display period: June—September Ricinus communis is a large plant used mainly for spot planting in display beds. Use packetseeds.com Ricinus communis offered at 95 pence per packet. Ricinus communis embraces many forms differing in height, colouring of the leaves and shape of the seed. The original form, probably a native of Africa or East India, is nowadays grown in all warmer regions. In the UK and Europe it can he grown only as an annual— it will not survive the winter. Under favourable conditions the huge plants may grow to a height of 10 ft. The large leaves are palmate and differ in colour according to the variety. The flowers are borne in groups; it is the leaves, not the flowers (combined with the size of the plants) that are the ornamental feature. Ricinus is planted out as a solitary subject or in groups in grass or in front of buildings. It is good as a backdrop for flowers, being generally used to mask walls and fences, but it is also used in large containers and earthenware urns, where it is very attractive even though it is not as large as when grown in the open ground. Growing: Ricinus requires well draining soil and a warm, sunny position. The young plants should be placed outdoors after all risk of frost is past. Fertiliser should be applied as needed and the plants watered liberally. Sowing: The seeds should he sown under protection into trays or small pots from mid-March to April. They may he sown even earlier but then the plants must be potted on before being moved to their permanent positions. The seeds will germinate more quickly and more readily if soaked in tepid water for one day prior to sowing. Germination temperature 22°C.
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