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New Zealand Purple Castor Oil Bean (Ricinus communis) Guide: Growing, Harvesting, and Uses of This Beautiful Plant

par Dhara Seeds Le Aug 10, 2025

About New Zealand Purple Castor Oil Bean (Ricinus communis) New Zealand Purple Castor Oil Bean (Ricinus communis) is a striking variety of the Castor Oil Plant that stands out due to its purple-tinted foliage and vibrant red to purple seeds. Known for its ornamental value, this variety is often grown as a decorative plant in gardens, especially for its dramatic, tall growth and unique coloration. Although famous for its castor oil, which is extracted from its seeds, the plant is primarily appreciated for its aesthetic beauty. New Zealand Purple Castor Oil Bean thrives in warm climates and adds a dramatic touch to both landscapes and garden beds. Discover more about New Zealand Purple Castor Oil Bean and other ornamental plants at Dharaseeds.com. Why Grow New Zealand Purple Castor Oil Bean (Ricinus communis)? Growing the New Zealand Purple Castor Oil Bean adds an eye-catching feature to any garden. Its deep purple leaves and vibrant seed pods make it a standout ornamental plant. Beyond its beauty, the plant has practical uses as well. The castor oil extracted from its seeds is used in a variety of medicinal, cosmetic, and industrial applications, though care should be taken when handling the seeds, as they are toxic if consumed. This plant is highly valued for creating vertical interest in garden landscapes and can be used as a focal point, in hedges, or as a border plant. When to Plant New Zealand Purple Castor Oil Bean (Ricinus communis)? New Zealand Purple Castor Oil Bean thrives in warm conditions, so the best time to plant it is during late spring or early summer, once the risk of frost has passed. The plant requires warm soil (at least 60°F / 15°C) to germinate, and planting it in full sun will help it reach its full height and color potential. If you live in a cooler climate, you can start the seeds indoors 4–6 weeks before the last frost and transplant them once the weather is consistently warm. Where to Grow New Zealand Purple Castor Oil Bean (Ricinus communis)? New Zealand Purple Castor Oil Bean is best suited for full sun and well-drained soil. The plant is known for its large size, so ensure that you plant it in an area with plenty of space for its tall, striking growth. It can grow in both garden beds and containers, making it a versatile addition to landscapes. Castor oil plants prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil, and the plant will thrive in humid conditions, which makes it suitable for tropical and subtropical regions. While it can tolerate some drought, it requires consistent moisture to achieve its maximum height and vibrancy. How to Grow New Zealand Purple Castor Oil Bean (Ricinus communis)? Planting: Start by planting the seeds about 1 inch deep in well-drained soil. Space the seeds about 2–3 feet apart to allow the plant ample room to grow. If planting in containers, ensure that the pots are large enough to accommodate the plant’s deep root system. Watering: Castor oil plants are moderately drought-tolerant once established, but they perform best with regular watering. Ensure that the soil stays consistently moist, especially during the plant's early growth stages. Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer or organic compost to feed the plant during the growing season. A light application of nitrogen-rich fertilizer in early spring will help encourage healthy foliage growth. Supporting the Plant: As the plant grows tall (up to 10–12 feet), it may need staking or support, especially in windy areas, to keep it upright. How to Care for New Zealand Purple Castor Oil Bean (Ricinus communis)? Watering: Keep the soil evenly moist, but ensure that the plant does not sit in standing water, as this can cause root rot. Water deeply during dry spells but avoid over-watering. Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture and prevent weeds. Mulching also helps keep the roots cool in hot weather. Pruning: Regular pruning is not necessary, but you can trim back any dead or damaged leaves. If the plant becomes too tall or leggy, you can trim it to maintain a compact shape. Pest Control: New Zealand Purple Castor Oil Bean is generally pest-resistant. However, it may attract aphids or mealybugs. Organic treatments like neem oil can be used if pests become an issue. Companion Plants for New Zealand Purple Castor Oil Bean (Ricinus communis) The dramatic size and bold color of New Zealand Purple Castor Oil Bean make it a great companion for plants with contrasting foliage or flowers. Some good companion plants include: Canna lilies: Their tropical appearance and bright colors pair well with the deep purple leaves of the Castor Oil Bean. Elephant ears: Both plants thrive in humid environments and enjoy similar sunlight and watering requirements. Sunflowers: Their tall growth and bright flowers complement the striking color and height of the Castor Oil Bean. Tropical ferns: These low-growing ferns work well as a groundcover beneath the Castor Oil Bean, balancing the dramatic vertical growth with softer foliage. Harvesting New Zealand Purple Castor Oil Bean (Ricinus communis) New Zealand Purple Castor Oil Bean is not typically harvested for its fruit, but the seeds of the castor oil plant can be collected once the seed pods mature. The seeds are encased in spiky pods, which turn brown when ready for harvesting. Caution should be exercised when handling the seeds, as they are toxic if ingested. To harvest, carefully remove the seeds from the pods, and store them in a safe location. Final Thoughts on New Zealand Purple Castor Oil Bean (Ricinus communis) New Zealand Purple Castor Oil Bean is a stunning, ornamental plant that brings vibrant color and dramatic height to any garden or landscape. Whether you’re planting it for its striking purple leaves, bold presence, or the castor oil produced from its seeds, this plant is a fantastic choice for adding a tropical flair to your space. Though the seeds are toxic if consumed, the plant itself offers many landscaping benefits and aesthetic appeal. With its easy care and high impact, New Zealand Purple Castor Oil Bean will make a statement in any garden. Learn more about New Zealand Purple Castor Oil Bean and other ornamental plants at Dharaseeds.com and start your garden transformation today!