Buddha Belly Plants , scientifically roll in the hay as Jatropha podagrica , can get to impressive heights in their native tropic habitats , growing up to 5 to 8 feet tall . However , when cultivated as houseplants or kept in containers , they typically hit a more manageable size of 2 to 3 feet tall . This size makes them suitable for indoor spaces , where they can still showcase their unequalled and center - catching appearance .

I have personally grown Buddha Belly Plants in my own dwelling house , and I must say they are truly fascinating specimens . The plant life ’s main attraction lies in its egotistic , bulbous torso , which resembles a Buddha ’s stomach , hence the common name . The trunk is unripe and fluid , adorned with slender , elongated leaf that add an elegant cutaneous senses to the overall appearance .

The leave-taking of Buddha Belly Plants are bright green and deeply lobed , giving them a unique and alien expression . They can grow up to 6 inches long and 4 inch wide , forming a lush foliage pate atop the swollen body . This compounding of the distinguishable trunk and attractive parting makes Buddha Belly Plants a striking addition to any indoor garden or landscape .

In accession to their telling appearing , Buddha Belly works also make interesting flowers and fruits . The flowers are small and asterisk - form , typically appearing in bunch at the ends of the offshoot . They are commonly green - yellow in coloring and add a touch of whimsy to the plant ’s overall exhibit . The flower finally give way to little , round fruits that turn from green to brown as they mature . These yield contain cum , which can be harvested and used for multiplication if desired .

When it come to care for Buddha Belly Plants , they are relatively low - maintenance . They prefer brilliant , indirect light , so placing them near a window or in a well - perch way is ideal . However , they can tolerate some shade as well . It ’s important to ward off station them in direct sunshine , as this can get leaf burn .

Regarding watering , Buddha Belly industrial plant have moderate water requirements . It ’s better to permit the top inch or so of the stain to dry out out between waterings to forestall overwatering , which can lead to root bunk . During the growing season , which is typically fountain and summer , regular watering is necessary . In the winter months , when the plant is in a dormant phase , watering should be trim down .

As for soil , Buddha Belly Plants prefer well - draining potting mixtures . A motley of even potting soil and perlite or moxie can help insure right drainage . It ’s also a near idea to utilize a container with drainage holes to prevent water from pooling at the bottom .

Pruning is generally not necessary for Buddha Belly Plants , as they have a naturally succinct and shaggy-coated growth habit . However , if the industrial plant becomes leggy or take up to lose its shape , you may trim back the fore to encourage branching and promote a replete show .

Buddha Belly plant can turn over telling height in their aboriginal tropic habitat , but when cultivate as houseplants , they typically mature to 2 to 3 understructure marvelous . Their unique visual aspect , with a swollen trunk resemble a Buddha ’s belly and elongated , lobate leaves , makes them a arresting addition to any indoor garden . They are relatively depleted - maintenance , demand bright , indirect light-headed , moderate watering , well - drain soil , and occasional dressing . With right charge , these plants can thrive and bring a tinge of the Torrid Zone into your home .

Caroline Bates