Jatropha Curcas As BiofuelThis page listed under Desert Plants Jatropha Plant Native to Central America, Jatropha Curcas is succulent plant from Euphorbiaceae family. Today, the plants are almost virtually present anywhere in many tropical and subtropical regions such as India, Philippines, Africa and North America. It actually originated in Caribbean and disseminated as a precious hedge plant to Africa and Asia by Portuguese trades. It is known for its impressive resistance against drought and pests. Like most species of Euphorbiaceae, this plant contains highly toxic compounds. The fruit it bears contains 27-40% oil; while the press cake of the seeds could be used for energy production after extracting the oil. The oil its fruit produces can amount to 2,000 barrels per square mile per year, making it the most sustainable bio-fuel crop. Besides its bio-fuel property, its oil is used in making soap and candles. The pure oil is burned in many engines and can also be refined. 
There had been tests conducted on its oil being used as bio-fuel to power trains, automobiles and planes. Nonetheless, it is hard to yield a reliable produce because no species have been domesticated yet.
On its second year, it starts producing oil through its fruit, and continues to do so until the next forty to forty-five years. On its sixth year, the plant has its optimal yields. It is spaced at 2 meter intervals; and in one hectare around 2,500 plants can be cultivated. The Jatropha Curcas is known for its ability to absorb high amount of carbon dioxide from atmosphere. Unlike other bio-fuel crops, the plant does not require irrigation. It can also withstand arid conditions such as the desert and can grow on any kind of soil. Jatropha is highly resistant to pests and plant diseases; hence, it does not need pesticides. Also, it provides protection to nearby inter-cropped plants. Top Of Jatropha Curcas Page : Photo credit to Flicker tonrulkens' photostream |