Castor Seeds (Ricinus communis) fresh 25 seeds herbal organic
 
Ricinus communis, commonly known as the castor oil plant, is a flowering perennial in the spurge family, Euphorbiaceae. It is the only species in the genus Ricinus and subtribe Ricininae, with its evolution and genetic relationships to other species under study. The plant reproduces through a mixed pollination system, favoring self-pollination while also capable of cross-pollination by wind or insects.

Native to the southeastern Mediterranean, East Africa, and India, castor is now widely cultivated in tropical regions and as an ornamental plant. Its seeds, known as castor beans, yield castor oil, a versatile substance rich in triglycerides, particularly ricinolein. However, the seeds also contain ricin, a potent toxin.

The castor plant’s appearance is highly variable, with numerous cultivars developed for ornamental purposes and oil production. It typically grows as a fast-growing shrub or small tree, reaching up to 12 meters (39 feet), although it does not tolerate cold temperatures. Its large, glossy, palmate leaves can have up to 12 lobes and change color throughout their life, ranging from reddish-purple to dark green or even a dramatic purple-red.

The flowers of Ricinus communis are unisexual and lack petals, with both male and female flowers found on the same plant. Male flowers are numerous and yellow-green, while female flowers are fewer and found within immature spiny capsules. The fruit itself is a spiny capsule containing the toxic, bean-like seeds, which are dispersed by ants due to a special appendage called a caruncle.