Originating from tropical East Africa, this species has adapted to a variety of warm climates across the globe, including the United States, where it is regarded as an invasive weed in warm locations worldwide. There are a range of cultivars. It contains ricin, a highly toxic compound, making all parts of the plant extremely poisonous if ingested. On the commercial front, this plant is cultivated primarily in India, China, and Brazil, and its seeds are processed to extract castor oil, which has applications in the pharmaceutical and industrial sectors. Once purified, is devoid of the toxin and is safe for use. Photographed in Colombia.