Carmencita Castor Bean
Ricinus communis 'Carmencita'
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
72 inches
Width
36 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
9
Water
Moderate, prefers moist soil
Humidity
Average to high
Lifespan
Perennial in warm climates
Native To
Eastern Africa and India
Toxicity
High; seeds and sap are toxic
The Story
Plant Bio
Carmencita is known for its striking, colorful foliage and unique red flower clusters. This cultivar has a unique compact growth habit and vibrant red stems, making it highly ornamental.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into moist soil after the last frost for best germination.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and encourage rooting.
- Transplant seedlings when they are 4-6 inches tall into a sunny spot.
- Fertilize monthly with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
- Prune to shape and remove dead or damaged leaves in early spring.
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Plant in well-drained soil with full sun for vigorous growth and high yield.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply once a week during dry spells 🌱
- Apply organic compost in spring for healthy foliage
- Prune to promote bushy growth and remove dead leaves
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t fertilize late in the season to prevent weak growth
- Never leave pruning tools dirty to avoid disease spread
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Plant |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Carmencita Castor Bean questions
What zones can Carmencita Castor Bean grow in?
Carmencita Castor Bean is hardy in USDA Zones 9–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Carmencita Castor Bean deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Carmencita Castor Bean, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Carmencita Castor Bean bloom?
Carmencita Castor Bean typically blooms in late summer through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Carmencita Castor Bean need full sun?
Carmencita Castor Bean does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Carmencita Castor Bean drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Carmencita Castor Bean handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
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Grow Carmencita Castor Bean with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
