Family: Euphorbiaceae
Origin, Description & Uses
Jatropha podagrica, commonly known as gout stalk or bottle-euphorbia, is a small succulent shrub native to Central America, particularly regions of Guatemala and nearby countries. It is easily recognized by its swollen, bottle-shaped stem, large lobed leaves, and clusters of bright coral-red flowers held above the foliage. Because of its unusual form and long-lasting blooms, it is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in tropical and subtropical gardens, including in Hawaiʻi. It is also grown in containers and used in xeriscaping due to its drought tolerance and striking appearance.
Risks & Threats
In Hawaiʻi, gout stalk is naturalized but is generally considered a low-risk species. While it can reproduce by seed and occasionally persist outside of cultivation, it does not typically spread aggressively or outcompete native vegetation. However, like other members of the genus Jatropha, all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested, posing a potential hazard to pets and people. Gardeners should use caution when planting it in areas accessible to children or animals. Overall, it has not been shown to significantly impact natural ecosystems, but responsible planting and monitoring are recommended to ensure it remains a contained ornamental.
High Risk Traits:
- Toxic to animals and humans (seeds highly poisonous)
- Naturalized outside native range (Australia, Florida, Hawaii, Africa, Asia)
- Congeneric weed (J. gossypifolia is a serious weed)
- Self-compatible (can self-pollinate)
- Intentionally dispersed by people (widely cultivated as ornamental)
- Dispersed by ants (myrmecochory)
- Produces viable seed
Low Risk Traits:
- Narrow climate suitability (USDA zones 10a–11)
- Not an agricultural, forestry, or environmental weed
- No spines, thorns, or burrs
- Not shade tolerant
- Narrow soil tolerance (neutral pH only)
- Does not form dense thickets
- No vegetative reproduction (seeds only)
- Low seed production (≤3 seeds per fruit)
- Not dispersed by wind, water, birds, or accidental means
- Seeds not consumed by animals
