Jatropha podagrica

Buddha Belly Plant, Fat Man

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A tropical succulent shrub featuring a distinct swollen stem base resembling a belly. Produces clusters of bright red cup-shaped flowers in spring.
yard Indoor plants wb_sunny Half-shade / Sun pets Not pet-safe
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Plant Details

Common Name Buddha Belly Plant, Fat Man
Family Euphorbiaceae
Genus Jatropha
Species Podagrica
Origin Mexico / Central America
Blooming Vibrant red flowers typically appear in spring and summer on mature plants.
Leaf Color Green, sometimes variegated
Sunlight Half-shade / Sun
Category Indoor plants
Pet Friendly close No
yard

Care & Maintenance

terrain
Soil

Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with high perlite/sand content; avoids waterlogging.

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Watering

Allow soil to dry completely between waterings; reduce significantly during winter dormancy to prevent rot.

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Sunlight & Care

Bright indirect light to full sun; requires direct sunlight for optimal flowering and stem coloration.

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Fertilization

Diluted balanced fertilizer monthly during active growing season (spring/summer); avoid in winter.

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Pruning

Prune dead or leggy stems early spring to maintain shape; handle with gloves due to toxic sap.

Pest Control Aphid Mealybug Scale Insect Spider Mite

These are the insects and pathogens that commonly interact with this plant, including pests, parasites, and organisms typically associated with its care.

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Seasonal Periods

local_florist Flowering Period 4 months
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
eco Leaf Persistence 12 months
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
thermostat

Growing Parameters

thermostat
Temperature
50° – 95°
Fahrenheit
Ideal ambient air temperature range for healthy growth
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Humidity
20% – 70%
% relative
Optimal relative air humidity the plant thrives in
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Light (LUX)
2000 – 35000
Lux
Ambient illuminance level at the plant's surface
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Light (PAR)
1000 – 2500
mmol/m²/s
Photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) intensity
water
Soil Moisture
5% – 40%
% volumetric
Water content in the growing medium
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Soil EC
300 – 1500
mS/cm
Electrical conductivity (nutrient concentration in soil water)

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