Growing Mysteries

Castor Bean Bright Red (Ricinus Communis Carmencita Bright Red) Attractive solitary plant for border or container, medicinal plant, ornamental leaf plant, oil plant. This bright red Castor bean plant grows approximately 5 feet tall. Use 1 or 2 castor bean seeds per plant. The seeds will germinate in 6 - 12 days at 70 - 72F if planted correctly.
Castor Bean seeds can be started indoors 6 - 8 weeks before the last frost date or directly outdoors after frost season has passed. It is recommended to soak the Ricinus seeds for 24 hours in water to help break the seed coat. Cover the Castor Bean seed with 1/4 inch of soil and keep moist. Grow the Castor Bean plant in full sun and in soil that is rich and has been amended with organic matter. Care of the bright red Castor Bean plant would include staking the plant if needed, trimming the faded flowers to produce new blooms, and fertilizing every month (or adding a slow-release fertilizer at the time of planting). In the fall after the first frost, remove the plant and discard.
NOTE: All parts of the plant, including the seeds, are poisonous. Eating the seeds may be fatal. This plant is not recommended if you have small children. Again if you have children that naturally put things into their mouths, you probably should avoid this Castor Bean plant. If you do decide to grow it, educate your children about the dangers of this plant.
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