Plants: Ricinus communis 'Zanzibarensis' - Castor Bean

THE CASTOR BEAN is a shrub-like plant with large, long-stemmed leaves that are lobed like fingers. Its spiny, clustered seed pods contain white, bean-like seeds (Botanically speaking, it isn't a true bean, but a Spurge), which typically bear attractive markings in various colours. The plant is native to tropical Africa, but it is grown commercially in California and has become naturalized throughout the southern United States. In northern areas, it is often cultivated, in the warmer months, as an ornamental annual in gardens, providing local gardeners with a castor of thousands....

Giant Zanzibar is a larger variety than common castor bean with more conspicuous veining on the leaves. This is a fast growing plant with huge, palmate, tropical-looking leaves up to three feet across. In tropical areas Castor Beans are perennial. This variety can grow 20 feet tall.

Publisher: Hirts Gardens