Gout plant (Jatropha podagrica)
Care, watering, light and tips for Gout plant on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Euphorbiaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 10–38 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Gout plant
Jatropha podagrica, also known as 'Bottle Plant' or 'Goutystalk Nettlespurge', is a perennial succulent from the Euphorbiaceae family, native to Central America. It is characterized by its swollen, bulging stem at the base, resembling a bottle, and its bright green, lobed leaves. It is an ideal ornamental plant for rock gardens, pots, and as a specimen plant in bright indoor settings.
Native range
Central America, specifically in Panama and Costa Rica
Care tips
It requires direct or very bright sunlight to thrive and maintain its compact form; insufficient light can cause its stem to etiolate. Water moderately, allowing the substrate to dry out completely between waterings, especially in winter. Use a well-draining succulent or cactus mix. A common mistake is overwatering, which can lead to rot of the bulbous stem.
How to save a dying Gout plant
- Warning signs
- Soft, wrinkled stem, yellow or falling leaves. Soft or smelly roots.
- First aid
- Remove from pot. Discard wet soil. Inspect roots, cut soft parts. Air dry for one day.
- What kills it
- Overwatering, especially in winter. Does not tolerate waterlogging or cold.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if rot hasn't advanced much in the caudex. Act fast.