Jatropha Podagrica (Buddha Belly)

Jatropha podagrica
Common Name: Buddha Belly Plant

Jatropha podagrica, known as the Buddha Belly Plant, is a bold and exotic caudiciform prized for its swollen, gnarled trunk and vivid tropical blooms. Native to Central America, this fascinating succulent forms a potbellied base (caudex) that stores water—giving it its nickname and bonsai-like character.

From its swollen base, large, lobed leaves sprout on long petioles, often resembling a castor bean plant. But the real showstopper? A cluster of bright coral-red flowers that appear almost year-round on tall stems, attracting butterflies and adding a vibrant splash of color even when leafless.

☀ Light Requirements
Thrives in bright, indirect sunlight to filtered full sun. Outdoors, give it morning sun and some afternoon shade. Indoors, a sunny windowsill or grow light will keep it thriving.

💧 Watering Needs
Water deeply when the soil is fully dry. During active growth (spring–summer), water more frequently. In winter, when it may go dormant and lose its leaves, reduce watering drastically. Always use a well-draining mix.

🌡 Temperature Tolerance
Prefers warm conditions and should be protected below 50°F. Not frost-hardy. For cold climate shipping, we recommend adding a [Heat Pack].

✨ Special Features
• Swollen Caudex – Fat trunk adds character and stores water
• Showy Coral Flowers – Bloom on and off most of the year
• Great for Containers – Compact growth makes it perfect for pots or bonsai-style presentation

Other Common Names:
Buddha Belly Plant, Gout Plant, Bottle Plant, Guatemala Rhubarb

This cactus will ship bare root and will be ready to place directly in a well draining soil mix like our Custom Cactus Mix.

Photos in the listings unless otherwise specified are representative of the plant that will be sent to you.
However, Plants grow differently and each plant may vary slightly in shape, size, growth pattern, etc.
Of course, if you receive a plant that you are dissatisfied with please reach out to us. We want to make it right!

If temperatures near you are below 45℉ we highly recommend adding a Heat Pack to your order.
If temperatures where you live will be much lower than 20℉ even heat packs may not work. You may consider waiting until things warm up a bit. We know you love your plants just like we do and we wouldn't want any of them to freeze.