It was pointed out to me that this plant appears in the database with two distinctly different leaf shapes. I have always seen it like this:
but there are plenty of pictures out there where the leaves are much more divided. We think one or the other might be a different species? Can anyone shed light on this?

All I have learned thus far is the the deeply cut, lacy leaves are the more immature foliage but that it is the same plant. I'll keep looking.

Hi Hetty and Greene...i grew my Jatropha multifida from seeds sent to me by a reputable seed seller in Madeira Beach, Florida. I believe that Jatrophas have variable leaf types. I know the J. integerrima is found with both fiddle leaves and ovate leaves and some other type. I am working on memory here from about 2 years ago. So i think it is possible that the J. multifida also might have variable leaf shapes. I am in the process of running out the door and don't have time to research that now. Also, i wonder if growing conditions, soil types, amount of water received, etc. might have some effects.

http://www.florida.plantatlas....
http://www.florida.plantatlas....

Encyclopedia of Life
http://eol.org/pages/1156050/o...
http://eol.org/pages/1156050/m...

@Calif_Sue - what do you think?

From this link about medicinal plants of Myanmar:
http://www.tuninst.net/MP-KS/E...

Quote: "Leaves alternate, simple; stipules multifid stalks; petioles long, canaliculated; laminae orbicular, palmatisect, 3- to 5-lobed, incised into many narrow entire or lobulate segments, the bases rounded or cordate, the margins entire or glandular semulated, the tips caudate-acuminate, 5- to 10-costate, reticulate, glabrous, the upper surfaces green, the lower reddish green glaucous."

Sure looks like J. multifida to me:
http://mobile.floridata.com/Pl...
http://www.floridagardener.com...

Side by side Jatropha comparison photos here: http://okeechobee.ifas.ufl.edu...