Ricinus communis

Taproot is strong and with prominent lateral roots. Stem and branches have conspicuous nodes and ring-like scars. Shoots are usually glaucous, variously green or red. Glands are often present at nodes, petioles and main axes of inflorescences. Leaves are simple, spirally arranged and they have 3.5-50 cm long petioles. Stipules are 1-3 cm long, clasping the stem, deciduous. Blade is palmately 5-12-lobed, up to 50(-70) cm in diameter, lobes acuminate, margins with glandular teeth. Inflorescence is an erect terminal panicle, up to 40 cm long, usually glaucous, consisting of cymes. Flowers are unisexual, regular, with short pedicel, 1-1.5 cm in diameter. Calyx lobes are 3-5, acute. Corolla is absent. Male flowers are towards the base of the inflorescence, with many stamens in branched bundles. Female flowers are towards the top of the inflorescence, with early falling sepals and a superior ovary that is usually covered by soft spines. Styles are 3, red or green. Fruit is ellipsoid to globose, 3-lobed dehiscent capsule, 1.5-2.5 cm long, brown, spiny or smooth, 1-seeded. Seeds are ellipsoid, 9-17 mm long, compressed, with a mottled, shining seed coat and a distinct elaiosome at the base.