An attractive compact variety of Castor Bean plant, with bronze leaves and dark green stems. These plants make very good ‘accent’ plants in a flower bed and attractive pot plants. They grow to a height of 1.2 – 1.5m, with brilliant red seed heads in summer. Plants provide a fast-growing and interesting tropical feel to gardens. They will grow in large containers.
Ricinus ‘Gibsonii’ grows best in full sun and moist rich soil. It grows fast and grows well as an annual in the UK, although it may survive for many years in warmer gardens and warmer winters.
Pack of 8 seeds. Sow in spring indoors and plant out after the last frost. Sowing instructions and a colour photo are printed on the packet.
Caution: Seeds are poisonous.
See how your seeds are packed.
Hardiness |
Half hardy perennial, mostly grown as an annual |
Flowers |
July to September |
Height |
120 - 150cm |
Spread |
100cm |
Conditions |
Full sun to part shade and rich well drained soil |
Sow |
Sow in spring 6mm deep in small pots of compost, keep at a warm 20-25° and germination takes 2-4 weeks. Transfer seedlings to larger pots when they are big enough to handle and plant outside, after hardening off, after the last frost, typically the end of May. In warmer climates, seeds can be sown directly in the soil in late May. |
Grow |
Plants grow quickly, so make sure you have somewhere to keep them frost-free before planting out in late spring. Plants can be grown in a conservatory and will live several years if protected from frost. Plants are evergreen and do not need pruning, except to remove older and damaged leaves as necessary. Under glass, protect against spider mites during dry weather. Outside, grow plants in a sheltered place, as wind may shred the leaves. Wash hands after handling seeds or plants. |
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