Castor oil plant 'New zealand purple'

Ricinus communis

How to grow Castor oil plant 'New zealand purple'

All parts of the plant are very poisonous. It may require staking if grown in an exposed position

Keep in mind when planting that New zealand purple is thought of as tender, so remember to wait until your soil is warm and the night time temperature is well above freezing before moving outside.

Growing New zealand purple from seed

Require bottom heat 30 to 35C to germinate, when warmed germination is very quick a matter of a few days. Does not require light to germinate. As soon as the seed is germinated, reduce temperature slowly and place in good light to prevent the seedlings growing to long

Soil temperature should be kept higher than 30°C / 86°F to ensure good germination.

Transplanting New zealand purple

Pot up until the plant is well established and then plant out when all danger of frost has past. Enjoys a bright light position protected from the wind as the plant grows tall and the leaves are big

Ensure that temperatures are mild and all chance of frost has passed before planting out, as New zealand purple is a tender plant.

Harvesting New zealand purple