Castor (R. communis) is yet another important oil crop containing up to 60% of unique oil, 90% of it being ricinoleic acid (12-C hydroxyoleic acid). This acid is extremely useful for industrial purposes because it has high molecular weight, a low melting point (5 1C), a very low solidification point (from 12 1C to 18 1C) and high viscosity. Castor plants are engineered for producing novel oils such as those containing epoxy acids for premium oil-based paint with reduced volatility.