Ricinus communis, Castor Bean

Melissa H. Friedman, Michael G. Andreu, Heather V. Quintana, and Mary McKenzie

Release Date: 2/15/2022

Reviewed At: 4/9/2025

DOI: 10.32473/edis-fr306-2013

Agriculture

Abstract

This document provides an overview of the castor bean plant (Ricinus communis), detailing its characteristics, uses, and potential hazards. It describes the plant’s growth habits, physical features, and its classification as an invasive species in Florida. The article also highlights the plant’s allergenic properties and the toxicity of its seeds, which contain ricin. Additionally, it outlines the commercial, horticultural, and medicinal applications of castor oil derived from the seeds, emphasizing the importance of careful handling due to the plant’s toxic nature. Original publication date May 2010.

About this Publication

This document is FOR 244, one of a series of the School of Forest, Fisheries, and Geomatics Sciences, UF/IFAS Extension. Original publication date May 2010. Visit the EDIS website at https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu for the currently supported version of this publication.

About the Authors

Melissa H. Friedman, former biological scientist, School of Forest, Fisheries, and Geomatics Sciences, UF/IFAS Extension, Plant City Center; Michael G. Andreu, associate professor of forest systems, School of Forest, Fisheries, and Geomatics Sciences; Heather V. Quintana, former research assistant, School of Forest, Fisheries, and Geomatics Sciences, and Mary McKenzie, former research assistant, School of Forest, Fisheries, and Geomatics Sciences; UF/IFAS Extension, Gainesville, FL 32611.

How to Cite

Friedman, M. H., Andreu, M. G., Quintana, H. V., & McKenzie, M. (2013). Ricinus communis, Castor Bean. EDIS, 2013(4). https://doi.org/10.32473/edis-fr306-2013