Castor Oil Plant Seed ( Ricinus )

The one negative of the castor oil plant is the toxicity of the seeds. The seeds are said to be fatal if eaten and as such it is recommended that this plant is grown out of reach of children. If you are a nervous parent then perhaps this plant should be avoided altogether. The seeds are generally held quite high on the plant, certainly out of reach of any very small children. The plants are also strong and unlikely to fall over in windy conditions were the seeds could be presented. Actually removing the seeds from their pods is also quite difficult.

All parts of Ricinus spp. are poisonous, even the seeds, these plants are recommended for growing in gardens and flower beds, not around children or pets that chew on plants. You should not grow castor beans where children play; the seeds are just too pretty and too deadly.

AW52 Carmencita Bright Red ( Ricinus communis )

Carmencita Bright Red Castor Bean is one of the most striking ornamental foliage plants available, producing brilliant scarlet-red seed pods that contrast beautifully against large burgundy-bronze leaves. This award-winning selection develops into a bold tropical-looking specimen in just one growing season, making it an outstanding focal point for flower beds, backgrounds, and dramatic landscape plantings. Although grown as an annual in most climates, its rapid growth and colorful foliage provide an instant tropical effect throughout the summer.

Garden Uses:
An excellent choice for specimen plantings, tropical gardens, large flower beds, mixed borders, privacy screens, and dramatic background plantings. Carmencita Bright Red pairs beautifully with ornamental grasses, cannas, sunflowers, cosmos, cleome, and other bold annuals. It also makes an impressive container centerpiece in very large decorative pots.

Growing Information:
Sow seeds outdoors after all danger of frost has passed or start indoors 4–6 weeks before the last expected frost. Soaking seeds overnight often speeds germination. Plant in full sun and fertile, well-drained soil. Once established, plants are drought tolerant but perform best with regular watering and occasional feeding. Mature plants typically reach 5–8 feet tall in one season with a spread of 3–5 feet.

Quick Facts:
Type: Tender Annual (Perennial in tropical climates)
Botanical Name: Ricinus communis
Height: 5–8 feet
Spread: 3–5 feet
Light: Full Sun
Bloom Time: Mid Summer through Frost
Flower Color: Red flower spikes followed by brilliant scarlet seed pods
Foliage: Deep Burgundy-Bronze
Soil: Fertile, Well-Drained
Water: Moderate
Attracts: Bees & Beneficial Insects

MON088 Carmencita Bright Pink ( Ricinus communis )

Carmencita Bright Pink Castor Bean is an eye-catching ornamental annual prized for its rich burgundy foliage and brilliant rosy-pink seed pods. This fast-growing tropical-looking plant creates an impressive focal point in the landscape, reaching shrub-like proportions in a single season. The vivid pink seed capsules stand out beautifully against the dark leaves, making Carmencita Bright Pink one of the most colorful foliage plants for summer gardens.

Garden Uses:
Perfect as a dramatic specimen plant, background planting, tropical garden accent, or centerpiece in large mixed flower beds. It pairs beautifully with ornamental grasses, cannas, sunflowers, cleome, zinnias, and cosmos. It also performs well in very large patio containers where its bold foliage can be fully appreciated.

Growing Information:
Sow seeds outdoors after the danger of frost has passed or start indoors 4–6 weeks before transplanting. Soaking the seeds overnight may improve germination. Plant in full sun with fertile, well-drained soil. Water regularly during establishment, then provide moderate moisture throughout the growing season. Plants typically reach 5–8 feet tall with a spread of 3–5 feet.

Quick Facts:
Type: Tender Annual (Perennial in Tropical Climates)
Botanical Name: Ricinus communis
Height: 5–8 Feet
Spread: 3–5 Feet
Light: Full Sun
Bloom Time: Summer through Frost
Flower Color: Pink Flower Spikes with Bright Pink Seed Pods
Foliage: Deep Burgundy-Bronze
Soil: Fertile, Well-Drained
Water: Moderate
Attracts: Bees & Beneficial Insects

All seed packets listed on this page are in stock and ready to ship.