How Long Does It Take for Castor Bean Seeds to Germinate?

Seeds of the castor bean grow slowly.

The castor bean plant, Ricinus communis, is a native of northeastern Africa and the Middle East, according to the website Floridata. The seeds of the plant, which has migrated worldwide, germinate relatively slowly.

Time Frame

Castor bean seeds germinate within two to three weeks and may even sow themselves. "Germination is slow," according to an article from Purdue University's horticulture department. "Seedlings will emerge 10 to 21 days after planting." Commercial varieties grow to a height of 3 to 10 feet.

Considerations

Although the plant grows well in heat, castor seeds may fail to set properly if the temperature remains in excess of 100 degrees Fahrenheit for an extended period of time. Germination may be hastened by sowing seeds in containers indoors approximately eight weeks before the last expected frost. This technique is also helpful in areas with short growing seasons.

Hints

Gardeners anxious to see quickened development of their plant may use shortcuts. "Germination can be hastened if the seeds are soaked in water for 24 hours or nicked with a file before planting," according to Floridata. The seeds may be sown in place in USDA plant hardiness zones 8 through 11.

References

• Floridata: Ricinus communis
• Purdue University Horticulture Department: Castorbeans