I would like to know if anyone has successfully grown the Phyic Nut (Jatropha Curcas) in the North East coast (Northern New Jersey) of the United States. I am really interested in this subject because this bush/ tree will thwart normal garden pests such as squirrels, raccoons, possums, gophers, ground hogs and deer. This plant is used as a living fence around farms and plantations in countries such India, China, and Mali. All of my current search on the internet has shown that this plant will grow in the following states, Florida, Texas, California.
Far too cold in NJ for a this tropical tree. Though rated as a zone 9 plant, it still suffers during a frost and is nowhere near capable of handling the zone 6b/7a (5º to -5º) winter you have. You could grow it as a potted plant that is brought inside for the winter? Not good though if you have kids or pets.
Now I need to know if there is a plant or tree with the same pest and wild life repelling qualities of the Physic Nut Tree (Jatropha Curcas) that can survive a New Jersey winter. I would appreciate any and all information on this subject
