Jatropha podagrica - Buddha Belly Plant

Jatropha podagrica, commonly known as the Gout Plant or Buddha Belly Plant, is a striking succulent-like plant with a bulbous and, yes, belly-like stem. Its mid-green, hand-shaped leaves and bright coral-red flowers sprout from the top of this stem like a host of cocktail umbrellas, but obviously better and more alive. Native to tropical regions, it’s an eye-catching addition to your indoor garden and is known for its resilience and distinctive appearance. 

Scientific Name
Jatropha podagrica (nutrition doctor plant, gouty species)

This plant has had the same name since it was first described in an 1848 publication.

Common Name(s)
Gout Plant, Buddha Belly Plant, Bottleplant Shrub, Tartogo, Guatemalan Rhubarb, Goutystalk Nettlespurge, Coral-Plant, Australian Bottleplant, Purging-Nut, Physic-Nut

Origin
Native to Central America and the Caribbean, including regions of Mexico and Honduras.

Light
This plant will prefer just a couple of hours of direct sun per day, so an east- or west-facing window would be ideal. Too much sun puts your plant at risk of sun scorch and dehydration, while too little light will make it far too easy to overwater and risk root rot.

Water
Allow the soil to dry out between waterings. Water thoroughly and ensure excess water drains away. Reduce watering in winter when the plant’s growth slows, as too much water when it cannot dry out can lead to root rot.

Humidity
Prefers low to moderate humidity and adapts well to average household humidity levels. Avoid placing it in overly damp or poorly ventilated areas, or too close to a radiator which could dry it out entirely.

Soil
Use a well-draining cactus or succulent mix. Having sand or grit in the soil improves aeration and prevents waterlogging. Repot every three years when necessary, or when the plant outgrows its container. This plant is better slightly rootbound than moved too soon.

Food
Feed with a balanced, water-soluble fertiliser every four waters during the growing season (spring and summer). Reduce feeding to every six waters in autumn and winter when growth slows.

Temperature
Thrives in warm temperatures between 18-27°C. Protect from frost and avoid temperatures below 15°C. You can move this plant outdoors in summer, but make sure it's only outside when nighttime temperatures are solidly over 15°C.

Pet-safe
No, this plant is toxic if ingested. Keep it out of reach of pets and children, as all parts of the plant contain toxins

Sprouts Top Tips
Its swollen stem stores water, so keep in mind that it is well adapted to infrequent watering. Remove spent flowers and damaged leaves to encourage healthy growth and maintain its appearance.

Did You Know?
In its native habitat, Jatropha podagrica is used as a natural remedy for various ailments, although it must be handled with care due to its toxic properties. Its bottle-like stem and bright flowers have made it a popular choice for bonsai and ornamental gardening.