Euphorbiaceae

The Castor bean is usually utilized in home landscaping projects for shade purposes (near windows) and for its ability to form fast-growing property borders. It is an attractive plant to display in one's yard during the hot Arizona summer months, plus it's also inexpensive to grow (neighbors readily give away its beans) and it's an easy keeper.

Reaching approximately six feet in height, the palm-like leaves are large and are supported on stout stems. The spiny clusters of fruits produce up to three seeds (beans) each; the beans have a mottled appearance but are smooth to the touch.

Originally, a cultivated oil crop, this plant may grow along roadsides, ditch banks, in vacant lots, and in the unkempt yards of deserted houses and neglected property.

So, what's the problem with the Castor bean? All parts of this plant are extremely toxic to both humans and animals (even handling the beans may cause skin irritation).