Jatropha is a genus of approximately 175 succulent plants, shrubs
and trees (some are deciduous, like Jatropha curcas L.), from the
family Euphorbiaceae. The name is derived from (Greek iatros =
physician and trophe = nutrition), hence the common name physic nut.
Jatropha is native to Central America[1] and has become naturalized in
 many tropical and subtropical areas, including India, Africa, and
North America. Originating in the Caribbean, Jatropha was spread as a
 valuable hedge plant to Africa and Asia by Portuguese traders.
The mature small trees bear separate male and female flowers, and do
not grow very tall. As with many members of the family Euphorbiaceae,
Jatropha contains compounds that are highly toxic.