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(Jatropha dioica)
Leatherstem (Jatropha dioica)
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Claudio Cantú Muñiz
CC BY 4.0
Image By:
Claudio Cantú Muñiz
Recorded By:
Copyright:
CC BY 4.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: Claudio Cantú Muñiz | License Type: CC BY 4.0 | License URL: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ | Rights Holder: Claudio Cantú Muñiz | Publisher: iNaturalist | Date Created: 2018-07-06T14:02:47Z |
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Jatropha dioica, commonly known as Leatherstem, is a deciduous subshrub native to arid and semi-arid regions, often found in loamy, alluvial, and sandy soils as well as on rocky outcrops and hills in Texas and northern Mexico. It belongs to the spurge family, Euphorbiaceae, and is well adapted to its harsh native habitat, which includes desert scrub and chaparral ecosystems. Leatherstem typically reaches a height of 20–60 cm and has arching, succulent stems that are tough and flexible, with few branches. The plant’s unique ability to form overhand knots without breaking is a testament to the resilience of its stems. It produces white flowers during the spring and early summer, which are modest in appearance but can add a subtle charm to the garden.
Leatherstem is valued for its drought tolerance and unique, flexible stems that can be an interesting conversation piece. It is suitable for xeriscaping, rock gardens, and as a low-maintenance ground cover in arid landscapes. It thrives in full sun and requires minimal water once established, making it an excellent choice for water-wise gardening. The plant prefers well-drained soils and is tolerant of poor soil conditions. While it is not commonly afflicted by diseases, it can be sensitive to overwatering, which may lead to root rot. Leatherstem is not known for being invasive and can be a sustainable choice for gardeners looking to incorporate native plants into their landscapes.CC BY-SA 4.0
Leatherstem is valued for its drought tolerance and unique, flexible stems that can be an interesting conversation piece. It is suitable for xeriscaping, rock gardens, and as a low-maintenance ground cover in arid landscapes. It thrives in full sun and requires minimal water once established, making it an excellent choice for water-wise gardening. The plant prefers well-drained soils and is tolerant of poor soil conditions. While it is not commonly afflicted by diseases, it can be sensitive to overwatering, which may lead to root rot. Leatherstem is not known for being invasive and can be a sustainable choice for gardeners looking to incorporate native plants into their landscapes.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Subshrub
- Height: 1-3 feet
- Width: 3-6 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: White
- Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
- Leaf Retention: Deciduous
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun
- Water: Low
- Drainage: Fast
Common Uses
Bee Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance
Natural Habitat
Native to arid and semi-arid regions, including desert scrub and chaparral ecosystems
Other Names
Common Names: Leatherwood, Sangre De Drago
Scientific Names: , Jatropha dioica,
GBIF Accepted Name: Jatropha dioica Sessé