This brightly flowering shrub or small tree is Peregrina, Jatropha integerrima. It is also known as Spicy Jatropha, Firecracker Plant and Rose-flowered Jatropha. It belongs to the spurge family, Euphorbiaceae, along with cassava, poinsettia, Croton and Chenille Plant.

The species is native to Cuba and Hispaniola but is now cultivated widely in tropical and subtropical gardens for its flowers. In a warm climate, it may bloom through much of the year.

Peregrina usually grows as a densely branched shrub or small tree. Without regular pruning, it may reach roughly 10 to 15 feet tall and develop a broad, somewhat irregular crown.

The leaves are glossy green and quite variable in shape. Some are oval and unlobed, while others may be divided into three pointed lobes. The species name integerrima means “entire” or “unbroken,” referring to the smooth leaf margins rather than the overall shape of every leaf.

The flowers appear in upright clusters near the ends of the branches. They are usually bright scarlet, coral-red or deep pink, although cultivated forms may vary in color.

Each individual flower has five petals surrounding a prominent cluster of reproductive parts. The blossoms are relatively small, but many open together, creating vivid patches of color against the dark foliage.

Butterflies and hummingbirds are attracted to the flowers and visit them for nectar. Their repeated visits help transfer pollen between blossoms, making Peregrina a useful ornamental plant for a pollinator garden.

Male and female flowers may occur within the same flower cluster. After pollination, the female flowers develop into small, rounded, three-part capsules.

The fruits begin green and turn brown as they mature. When dry, they may split apart and release several seeds, following the typical fruiting pattern of many members of the spurge family.

Like other Jatropha species, Peregrina produces a milky sap when its leaves or stems are damaged. The sap may irritate the skin, and the seeds and other plant parts should be regarded as poisonous rather than edible. Visitors should admire the plant without breaking its branches or sampling any part of it.

Peregrina grows best in strong light and well-drained soil. Once established, it tolerates heat and periods of drought, although it flowers more generously when it receives adequate moisture.

It responds well to pruning and is often shaped into a compact shrub, flowering hedge or small multi-trunked tree. Regular trimming also encourages fresh branching, where new flower clusters develop.

Peregrina is therefore a plant whose appeal comes from repeated color. Its glossy leaves provide a dependable green background, while clusters of red or pink blossoms may appear again and again throughout the year.

When presenting it to a group, the best features to point out are the variable leaf shapes and the brilliant terminal flower clusters—but also the milky sap, which reminds us that a beautiful garden plant may still require respectful handling.