Description

Jatropha curcas is a multipurpose, drought resistant, large shrub or small tree belonging to the Euphorbiaceous family. Although it is a native of tropical America, it is widely cultivated in Africa and Asia. ? Jatropha is adapted to a wide range of climates and soils. ? It can grow almost on any type of soil whether gravelly, sandy or saline and thrives even on the poorest stony soils and rock crevices. ? It is a drought resistant perennial living up to *0 - *5 years. The tree grows up to a height of 3 meters, which means harvesting is an easy task. A hybrid variety of Jatropha could give three harvests per year, compared to two harvests by other varieties of Jatropha.