H. B. Doumbia, A. M. Maiga A. Korbo, D. Timbely, A. Diallo, I. Traore Jatropha curcas, pruning, seed yield, semi-arid, biofuel, Mali 44-57 10 (1) 2026 January 2026 Jatropha curcas L. is widely recognized as a promising bioenergy crop for semi-arid regions due to its drought tolerance and ability to produce oil-rich seeds under low-input conditions. However, its productivity remains inconsistent, largely due to environmental stress and suboptimal agronomic practices. Among these, pruning is commonly recommended to improve plant architecture and enhance yield, yet its effectiveness under semi-arid conditions remains unclear.This study evaluated the short-term effects of pruning on vegetative growth and seed production of Jatropha curcas using 19 and 28 accessions in two field trials conducted under semi-arid conditions in Mali. A pruning treatment was applied at 50 cm height and compared with non-pruned controls. Vegetative traits (plant height, branching, and root collar diameter) and reproductive parameters (fruit and seed production) were monitored over two growing seasons and analyzed using mixed linear models. Results revealed that pruning significantly reduced plant height (15–25%) and branching intensity (P < 0.0001), while root collar diameter remained unaffected. More importantly, seed yield in pruned trees decreased by approximately 57% compared to non-pruned plants. Monthly analysis showed consistently significant reductions in seed production, with peak yield occurring in August.