Jatropha (Jatropha curcas), a drought-resistant shrub or small tree native to the American tropics, is known for its high oil content seeds, which are used to produce biodiesel and other products. 

Here's a more detailed description:

Botanical Characteristics:

• Family: Euphorbiaceae (Spurge family). 
• Type: A drought-resistant, semi-evergreen shrub or small tree, reaching heights of 6 meters (20 feet) or more. 
• Growth Habit: It can grow in deserts and thrives on marginal lands. 
• Bark: Smooth grey bark that exudes a whitish colored, watery latex when cut. 
• Leaves: Alternate to sub-opposite, three- to five-lobed, with a spiral phyllotaxis. 
• Flowers: Formed terminally and individually, with female flowers usually slightly larger and occurring in the hot seasons. 
• Fruits: Ovoid capsules that contain seeds. 
• Seeds: Contain 27–40% oil, which can be processed to produce biodiesel. 

Distribution and Uses:

• Native to: Tropical America, particularly Mexico and Central America. 
• Widely Distributed: Found in wild or semi-cultivated areas in Latin America, Africa, India, and Southeast Asia. 

Uses:

• Biodiesel Production: Jatropha oil is a promising source of biofuel. 
• Other Applications: Jatropha oil can be used for soap production, lamps, and as a lubricant. 
• Animal Feed: The oilseed cake, after oil extraction, can be used as a protein-rich feed for animals (if detoxified). 
• Traditional Medicine: Various parts of the plant have been used in traditional medicine for skin conditions, pain relief, and other ailments. 
• Other Uses: Jatropha can be used as a live fence, to reduce erosion, and as a fertilizer source. 

Toxicity:

• Jatropha curcas contains phorbol esters, which are considered toxic.
• However, edible (non-toxic) varieties exist, particularly in Mexico.