Buddha belly plant care guide
Jatropha podagrica
Also known as: Gout plant, Coral plant
Pets and children
Considered toxic
A spurge-family plant, toxic throughout: even a few seeds can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain, and the sap irritates skin; keep it out of reach and consult a veterinarian (or a doctor, for a child) if eaten.
How often to water Buddha belly plant
- Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
- Every 5 days
- A summer grower: while in leaf, water thoroughly once the topsoil is dry, as a guide, and keep it on the dry side in spring before it sprouts.
- Autumn (Oct–Nov)
- Every 10 days
- As it cools and the leaves start to yellow, wait a few days after the soil dries, as a guide.
- Winter (Dec–Feb)
- Every 30 days
- After leaf drop keep it nearly dry, with a light watering about once a month as a guide, or about twice a month if it holds its leaves in a warm room.
Light and placement for Buddha belly plant
Generally likes a sunny spot: from spring to fall, a bright outdoor position or a sunny window is the guide, as low light makes the stem stretch and flowers scarce; avoiding harsh afternoon sun in midsummer limits leaf scorch.
Overwintering Buddha belly plant
Overwintering guide: 10°C (50°F) or above
Tender: move it to a bright spot indoors when nights fall below about 15°C, as a guide; most plants drop their leaves and rest, so water only about monthly and keep it above 10°C.
Fertilizing and repotting Buddha belly plant
Fertilizer
From May to September, diluted liquid fertilizer about twice a month or a little slow-release fertilizer, as a guide; none while dormant.
When to repot
Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
Common problems with Buddha belly plant
- Watered through dormancy, the swollen trunk rots from the base.
- In a dim room the stem stretches and flowering stops.
- Exposed to cold, the trunk turns soft and mushy.
Tips for growing Buddha belly plant
- Ripe seed pods burst and fling their seeds; to collect them, bag the pods before they turn brown.
- In good sun the red flower clusters keep coming from spring to fall.
- Wash your hands right after pruning or repotting if you touch the sap.
These are AI-generated general guidelines. They vary with the variety, the placement and the pot size. For effects on pets or children, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
Keep your plant log going
Greenery is a free app that keeps your plant care going, with watering reminders and photo records. Available on iOS and Android.
