The objective was to study external effects on growth, development and plant productivity. The experiment was conducted with 'BRS Energia' sown at three times in 2008/09 and 2009/10 seasons in Pelotas, Southern Brazil. It was evaluated the relative growth rate (RGR), net assimilation rate (NAR), yield and the main meteorological variables. The highest relative growth rate and net assimilation rate occurred at an average temperature of 22.5 to 25.7°C and average daily insolation greater than six hours, which coincide with November and December sowings in Southern Brazil. The highest yields were observed in October and November sowings.
Ricinus communis; 'BRS Energia'; relative growth rate; net assimilation rate
