Jatropha spinosa

Names and Synonyms

Scientific Names

Accepted name

Synonyms

• Adenoropium spinosum
• Jatropha aculeata
• Jatropha spinosa var. crenulata
• Jatropha spinosa var. somalensis

Sources: Wikidata

Taxonomical Classification

This plant belongs to the kingdom Plantae and is classified under the phylum Streptophyta and class Equisetopsida. Within the subclass Magnoliidae, it falls under the order Malpighiales and the family Euphorbiaceae. Finally, its specific taxonomic identity is defined by the genus Jatropha.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Distribution

This plant exhibits a specific distribution across several key regions in Northeast Tropical Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. Within Northeast Tropical Africa, its presence is documented in the countries of Djibouti and Somalia. Moving toward the Arabian Peninsula, the species can also be found growing in Saudi Arabia. Furthermore, its range extends into the territory of Yemen. Collectively, these locations define the primary geographical footprint of Jatrophia spinosa.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Botanical Identification

Life history

The life history of Jatropha spinosa is characterized by a perennial growth habit that allows it to persist through varying environmental conditions. In terms of its structural life form, the species is primarily classified as a phanerophyte, as its buds and growing points are elevated well above the ground surface on woody stems or branches. However, depending on specific environmental stressors or localized growth patterns, its life form may also be described within the context of a nanophanerophyte, reflecting a shorter, more compact shrubby stature in certain habitats. This perennial nature enables the plant to establish a robust presence in its ecosystem, utilizing its woody architecture to survive seasonal fluctuations.

Life form :

nanophanerophyte

Life form :

phanerophyte

Morphology

The morphology of Jatropha spinosa is characterized by its growth habit as a woody plant, possessing a sturdy and durable structure. It is a terrestrial species, growing directly in the soil rather than as an epiphyte. The plant functions as an independent organism, showing no parasitic tendencies, and maintains a self-supporting stature without the need for climbing mechanisms or external support structures.

Climber :

self-supporting

Epiphyte :

terrestrial

Parasite :

independent

Woodiness :

woody

Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)

Chemicals

Jatropha spinosa has 3 reported phytochemicals identified across 0 scientific publications and several other databases. The most consistently reported chemicals include Coumarins, Flavonoids, Sesquiterpenes.

Coumarins

1. Scientific reports

Flavonoids

1. Scientific reports

Sesquiterpenes

1. Scientific reports

Medicinal Uses

Jatropha spinosa has 2 reported medicinal uses identified across 0 scientific publications and several other databases. The most consistently reported uses include respiratory tract infection, wound healing.

Most Reported Uses