Jatropha curcas male flowers

Description:

Male flowers of Jatropha curcas, one of the potential biodiesel crops. In practice, oil yields are low and one or two serious breakthroughs are urgently needed. In contrast with many other Jatropha species, male flowers open first and female flowers come later, flowering together with the male flowers. This stimulates selfing. Note the pilose interior of the petals.