Tropical Planting

Ricinus communis 'Carmencita' is an outstanding new variety with shiny dark brown foliage. The palmate leaves have deeply incised lobes and grow 30 to 75cm (12 to 30in) across. The plants have red stems and in late summer clusters of bright red blooms are followed by stunning scarlet seeds pods.

This is a new and rather spectacular version of the Castor Oil Plant. Ricinus communis 'Zanzibarensis' is a fast growing, palm tree-like plant, it sports large green leaves and would be a splendid specimen for the back of the border. Be warned ... this remarkably architectural plant can grow up to 12 ft tall.

Ricinus communis is one of the best ways to quickly create a tropical effect in the garden. This remarkably architectural, fast growing plant. The huge leaves and interesting flower spikes add drama to borders and beds. The variety, gibsonii grows to around 150cm with gorgeous dark red, metallic foliage.

Ricinus communis is fast growing, tall and dramatic with huge leaves and interesting flower spikes that add drama to borders and beds. 'Impala' grows to a reasonable garden height of around 90 to 120cm with gorgeous copper-red palmate leaves with vibrant red veins.