a Physic Nut
Jatropha spicata
Heavily over-grazed rocky slope near Voi, Africa. 28 May 2017.
LEAVES: Leaves are deeply lobed with narrow divisions giving the leaf a star-like shape.
PART-SUCCULENT: Mostly herbaceous but with stems that are thick and succulent.
RANGE: On seasonally dry rocky slopes. The toxicity allows it to flourish where grazing animals are abundant.
FRUIT: Each fruit capsule is three-sided and contains three seeds.
FLOWERS: The flowers are pale yellow and rather small.
UNARMED. However, the sap can be toxic if ingested or contacts skin.