Peregrina (Jatropha integerrima)

Also known as: Integrileaf jatropha

The Peregrina plant (Jatropha integerrima) is admired for its striking red or pink blossoms, making it a favored choice for ornamental borders and decorative gardening. Originating from Cuba, this shrub is now grown globally and is known to attract butterflies and hummingbirds with its year-round flowers.

**Key Features:**
- **Blooms**: Produces vibrant red or pink flowers throughout the year.
- **Origin**: Native to Cuba, but widely cultivated in various regions.
- **Wildlife Attraction**: Draws butterflies and hummingbirds.

**Safety Considerations:**
- **Toxicity**: Every part of the plant is poisonous if ingested.
- **Handling**: Can cause skin irritation; advisable to wear gloves.
- **Protection**: Keep away from children and pets to avoid accidental ingestion.

Take necessary precautions when planting or handling Peregrina, especially in areas accessible to children and pets.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Peregrina

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Shrub

Plant Height

1 m to 2 m

Spread

1.8 m to 2.5 m

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

5 mm to 1 cm

Flower Color

Red

Images of Peregrina

Quickly Identify Peregrina

Velvety green leaves with purple undersides, 3-6 inches (7.5-15 cm) long and 2 inches (5 cm) wide.

Vibrant deep red flowers, 5 petals with yellow stamens, clustered on 4-inch (10 cm) stalks.

Distinct fruit transitioning from green to yellow or red, 0.4-0.8 inches (1-2 cm) long.

Simple green leaves 4-8 inches (10-20 cm) long, some three-lobed, with defined vein patterns.

Male and female flowers on same plant, symmetrical, 1 inch (2.5 cm) wide clusters in warmer months.

Scientific Classification of Peregrina

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Malpighiales

Family

Spurge

Genus

Physic nuts

Species

Peregrina

Planting and Growing of Peregrina

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 2 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

4-6 hours

Ideal Temperature

65-85℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Peregrina?

For Jatropha integerrima, the watering should be consistent but not excessive. Ideally, water until the top 2-3 inches of soil are moist but not soggy. The plant prefers well-draining soil, and overwatering can lead to root rot. About 500ml per session is optimal, ensuring moisture reaches the deeper roots.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Peregrina? ›

What should I do if my Peregrina is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Peregrina? ›

How to save an overwatered Peregrina? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Peregrina?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 4 to 6 hours

Jatropha integerrima thrives in full sun to partial sun conditions, promoting robust growth and abundant flowering. Adequate light ensures better health, vibrant blooms, and strong stem development.

Question: What is the ideal placement for Jatropha integerrima? ›

Question: How can I ensure the plant receives enough light indoors? ›

Question: Why is proper lighting crucial for Jatropha integerrima? ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Peregrina?

Ideal Temperature: 65 ~ 85℉

For optimal growth, Jatropha integerrima thrives in a warm environment. The ideal temperature range is between 65°F and 85°F. Within this range, the plant can efficiently photosynthesize, maintain healthy growth, and produce vibrant flowers. Temperatures consistently within this range help ensure robust foliage and minimal stress.

What Soil is Best for Peregrina?

Soil type: Sandy loam, Loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Jatropha integerrima prefers well-draining soil to prevent waterlogged roots. Good drainage minimizes root rot risks, ensuring the plant remains healthy and vibrant. A soil rich in organic matter supports Jatropha's growth by providing essential nutrients. Organic-rich soil fosters robust plant health and optimal blooming. Loamy soil offers excellent aeration, which is crucial for root respiration in Jatropha integerrima. Proper aeration keeps the roots oxygenated and promotes healthy development.

How to Fertilize Peregrina?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

Jatropha integerrima requires a moderate amount of fertilizer. For liquid fertilizer, dilute it to half the strength recommended on the packaging to avoid root burn. Each plant generally does well with 20 to 30 milliliters in a solution applied directly to the soil around the root zone.

How to Prune Peregrina?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

Begin by examining the plant and identifying any dead or damaged branches. Removing these first helps improve plant health and allows for more efficient pruning. To maintain a compact, aesthetically pleasing shape, trim back any overly long or leggy branches. Aim to create a balanced form, allowing sunlight to reach all parts of the plant. To encourage branching and a denser growth habit, cut just above a node or leaf bud. This practice stimulates the plant to produce more branches and flowers. After pruning, ensure you dispose of cuttings and debris appropriately to prevent the spread of pests or diseases. Compost healthy cuttings but discard any diseased material.

How to Propagate Peregrina plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early summer

To propagate through seeds, collect mature seeds from the plant. Ensure that the seeds are fully matured to ensure the best chance of successful germination.

For cutting propagation, select healthy branches and cut sections that are around 6 inches long. Make sure the sections are disease-free and have no damage.

Place the seeds in seed trays filled with a well-draining potting mix. For cuttings, dip the cut end in rooting hormone before planting it in a suitable potting mix.

How to Repot Peregrina plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Jatropha integerrima shows readiness for repotting when roots emerge from drainage holes, growth becomes stunted, or the soil dries out rapidly. In these cases, consider repotting to ensure plant vitality and growth.

Choose a pot slightly larger than the current one with adequate drainage holes. This prevents waterlogging and ensures proper root aeration, promoting healthy root growth and aiding in preventing root rot.

Opt for a well-draining potting mix to avoid water retention, which can lead to root rot. A mixture of sand, perlite, and organic compost provides both drainage and essential nutrients, enhancing plant growth.

Toxicity of Peregrina

Is Peregrina toxic to humans?

The sap, fruits, and seeds of the peregrina plant are extremely toxic to humans, with accidental ingestion being the primary way poisoning occurs, especially among children. Consuming the fruits and seeds can lead to fatal outcomes or induce serious health issues, including central nervous system depression, gastroenteritis, and bleeding. Additionally, the sap of the peregrina can lead to skin irritation if the plant is handled directly.

Is Peregrina toxic to cat?

Peregrina represents a significant toxicity threat to cats. Every part of this plant is toxic, and poisoning can arise if any section of it is consumed. If a cat ingests parts of peregrina, it may exhibit signs of physical discomfort, which may manifest as symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea. Given the elevated toxicity level, the onset of symptoms is typically rapid. It is crucial to quickly seek professional care at a veterinary clinic if there is suspicion that a cat has consumed peregrina.

Is Peregrina toxic to dog?

The plant species known as peregrina presents a significant toxicity threat to dogs. Ingestion of any portion of this plant can result in poisoning. Dogs can become ill by consuming leaves, flowers, seeds, or stems of peregrina. Symptoms of poisoning in dogs may encompass vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, and potentially more severe indications such as seizures or collapse due to the high toxicity associated with this species. It is imperative for dog owners to restrict access to peregrina and remain watchful for any signs of ingestion. Should a dog be suspected of having ingested peregrina, prompt veterinary assistance is essential to manage the symptoms effectively and enhance the chances of recovery.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.