The castor oil plant is quite common in urban design. It is often an ornament of flower beds in parks and squares. A bright scenic bush with leaves of a reddish shade can not but attract attention.
The historical birthplace of this plant is Africa. Kleshchevina vulgaris was cultivated still in Ancient Egypt about 4000 years ago. Today it is popular all over the world. It can be found on the streets in almost any country. Especially this plant is revered in India, Brazil, China, Iran and Argentina. In a humid hot climate, the bush lives up to three years and reaches a height of 10 meters, but in temperate latitudes the castor bean is grown as an annual plant and rarely grows more than three meters.
Sprawling bush with carved bright leaves and beautiful candles of reddish inflorescences makes an indelible impression on people. Best castor oil ordinary looks not in compositions with other plants, but planted alone and framed by neat green lawns. Often it is used as a central element in large flower beds.
Castor plant, in addition to decorative purposes in landscape design, has also considerable value. Its seeds are used in the production of castor oil, which in turn is used in the manufacture of paints, varnishes and plastics. Castor oil is used in instrument making as an obligatory component of lubricants. Do not do without it in pharmaceuticals and perfumes. This oil is also popular in everyday life. Each landlady knows that the treated leather surface becomes soft and moisture resistant.
Kleshchevina ordinary - heat-loving plant, which does not tolerate low temperatures. Especially sensitive to cold shoots. The adult bush begins to die already at +3 degrees. Planting this plant in the open ground, make sure that the selected area is well illuminated from all sides by the sun. In order for the plant to be strong and healthy, it needs regular watering. If there is a lack of moisture, castor be stopped in growth, its leaves will be shallow and inconspicuous. But prolonged waterlogging of the soil also adversely affects the health of the plant. Kleshchevina can be affected by fusariosis - rot. To avoid waterlogging, good drainage and regular loosening of the soil is necessary.
Kleshchevina - a plant whimsical and tender. Grow it by seedling method. Of course, it can be sowed in the open ground, but it is recommended only in the middle of May and after the threats of frost. Seeds are laid in the soil to a depth of 10 cm 3 pieces per well. Seedlings are planted in March in wide deep boxes. After 3-4 true leaves appear, the seedlings are transferred to the flower beds. It is better to transplant them by transshipment, together with an earthen lump. Several times per season the plant is fed with organic fertilizers, for example, manure or bird droppings. Mineral complexes are also introduced into the soil.