Ricinus Seeds - Castor Bean

Growing Castor Bean Ricinus Garden Seeds

Castor Bean ricinus seeds are recommended solely for outdoor growth because of their 72 – 144” height. Plants grow so vigorously that there is little reason to start seeds indoors. Sow directly after final frost in a sunny spot on the north end of the garden and sheltered from strong winds. Castor Bean seeds may need staking if plants are grown isolated. Plant 2 – 3 Castor Bean ricinus seeds ¼” deep and 24 – 36” apart in rich, evenly moist, and well-drained soil in full sun. Do not plant Castor Bean ricinus seeds near areas where children will play or frequent since the plant is notorious for being poisonous if ingested. Skin contact with the Castor Bean plant may cause an allergic reaction in some individuals. Be sure to plant ricinus at the north end of the garden since plants will grow 72 – 144” tall. Ricinus plants have no serious pests or diseases but monitor regularly for aphids and spider mites. Castor Bean ricinus seeds will mature in as quickly as 56 – 63 days as 72 – 144” tall bushy uprights with a 24 – 48” spread covered in red, petal-less blooms.

Ricinus communis, or Castor Bean, is one of the most notorious plants in the world. The Castor Bean plant has an allergic OPALS rating of 10 out of 10 and is verified by the Guinness Book of World Records for being the world's most poisonous houseplant. Ricinus communis is native to the warmest regions of the Mediterranean, Africa, and Asia and, despite its name, is not actually a true bean.