Jatropha curcas potential in Hawaii: food, feed, and fuel

Abstract

Jatropha curcas (Jatropha) is considered to be a high-yielding biofuel crop suitable for the tropics, including Hawaii, but a dearth of information exists to guide its management. Yield may vary according to a range of genetic, agronomic, and environmental factors. An investigation in Hawaii involving three field sites (Poamoho Experiment Station, Oahu; Kula Agricultural Park, Maui; Hawaii Pure Plant Oils Farm, Hawaii) and one greenhouse trial showed there was considerable variability in plant growth and yield. Differences in climate, soil, planting material, and other site conditions are discussed. Comparison of the details of the four study sites demonstrates that Jatropha is responsive to agronomic inputs in a manner typical of many food crops in Hawaii.