Abstract
The chapter presents a discussion on the biological, ecological, and economic importance of the Castor-oil plant, Ricinus communis, and it’s suitability for use as a phytoremediator in the removal of heavy metal contamination from mining spoil and soils generally. Suitability of R. communis is evaluated with consideration to heavy metals commonly found in mine tailings and spoil sites, examining how metal oxidation states affect plant–soil interaction leading to potentially toxic conditions for plant and the environment. The adaptability and tolerance of the Castor-oil plant to chemical, biological, and environmental stressors is presented. The importance of the Castor plant’s ability to not only successfully remove contaminants but also produce commercially viable by-products is discussed.
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