Prickly Castor Oil Tree - Ask Extension
We have a Prickly Castor Oil Tree growing on our property. We are concerned it may be invasive like bamboo. What can you tell us about advantages and ...
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Prickly Castor Oil Tree #867147
Asked May 05, 2024, 8:30 PM EDT
We have a Prickly Castor Oil Tree growing on our property. We are concerned it may be invasive like bamboo. What can you tell us about advantages and disadvantages of having this tree?
Thank you!
Lapeer County Michigan
Expert Response
Hi Sam,
The prickly caster oil tree appears to be invasive in tropical and sub-tropical climates, and while it may escape in Lapeer County, it is not likely to spread as bamboo does.
Advantages may be an ornamental landscape tree. It may also have some medicinal benefits if it's processed correctly; that said, the fruits can be deadly to humans if consumed raw. Disadvantages are that it could spread, and any fruit produced is not likely to be eaten by wildlife as it did not evolve with the native wildlife in the area.
So, other than having nice flowers, there are likely no other advantages to having this tree in Michigan.
I hope this helps. Feel free to reach out if you have any further questions.
Thank you,
-Julie
The prickly caster oil tree appears to be invasive in tropical and sub-tropical climates, and while it may escape in Lapeer County, it is not likely to spread as bamboo does.
Advantages may be an ornamental landscape tree. It may also have some medicinal benefits if it's processed correctly; that said, the fruits can be deadly to humans if consumed raw. Disadvantages are that it could spread, and any fruit produced is not likely to be eaten by wildlife as it did not evolve with the native wildlife in the area.
So, other than having nice flowers, there are likely no other advantages to having this tree in Michigan.
I hope this helps. Feel free to reach out if you have any further questions.
Thank you,
-Julie
