SafePlants

Croton tiglium: Purging Croton

Croton tiglium, commonly known as Purging Croton, is a plant with a rich history and diverse applications. This species has garnered attention across various cultures and disciplines, from traditional medicine to modern botany.

Considerations for Pets

• The seeds of Croton tiglium, referred to as "semina tiglii seu semina crotonis" or "purging nuts," suggest potential ingestion concerns.

Considerations for Children

• The seeds of Croton tiglium, referred to as "semina tiglii seu semina crotonis" or "purging nuts," suggest potential ingestion concerns.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Croton tiglium L.
• Family: Euphorbiaceae
• Kingdom: Plantae
• Taxonomic Rank: Species
• Synonyms/Alternative Names: Croton tiglium Linn.

Common Names

• Purging Croton
• Croton Oil Plant
• Physic-nut
• Purgative Croton
• True Croton
• Jamaal Gota (Hindi and Urdu)
• Neervalam (Malayalam)
• Ba Dou (Purging Croton Fruit)

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to India, China, and Sri Lanka.
• Grows in high-range areas with ample rainfall.
• Frequently found on river banks where the soil is rich in organic content.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Described as an East Indian shrub or small tree.
• Known for producing new leaves.

Traditional and Medicinal Uses

• Purging Croton is a component in many medicines.
• The seeds yield croton oil, which is used as a purgative.
• The root, bark, and leaves are also used medicinally.
• In Sanskrit, it is named Neervalam, Kumbini, Mukula, and Jayphala.

Genetic and Cytological Information

• Chromosome number: n = 10.
• Symbol: CRTI3
• Group: Dicot

Quirky Facts

• Croton tiglium goes by many names, in many languages, including Jamaal Gota in Hindi and Urdu, and Ba Dou for the Purging Croton Fruit.
• The seeds of Croton tiglium were historically referred to as "semina tiglii seu semina crotonis, grana tiglii, purging nuts."

Resources and Further Information

• TSN 506445
• Discover Life
• The Plant List