A Study of the Seed Character of Wild Jatropha curcas Resources in Sichuan Province

Investigations were made on the wild resource distribution, relevant environmental factors and seed traits of Jatropha curcas in Sichuan province. The results showed that the average grain weight,kernel percentage, kernel oil percentage and seed oil percentage were 590.93 g, 64.66%, 54.36% and 35.03%,respectively. There were extremely significant differences in seed traits, kernel percentage, kernel oil percentage and seed oil percentage among populations. The populations of Panzhihua Datian, Panzhihua Liuhuangkou and Ningnan Hulukou were evaluated as the most potential resources for future development. The subtropical dry-hot valleys in Panzhihua city and Ningnan Hulukou were the most suitable areas for Jatropha curcas plantation in Sichuan province.