Leucaena
Leucaena leucocephala
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About this plant
Leucaena leucocephala is a fast-growing tropical tree known for its feathery leaves and round clusters of small white flowers. It is often used for fodder, green manure, and erosion control. The tree fixes nitrogen in the soil, improving fertility. It can grow quickly and provide shade but may spread aggressively in some regions.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Leucaena
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Higher classification
- Fabales
- Plant type
- Tree
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- Mexico, Central America
- Distribution
- Native to southern Mexico and northern Central America; widely naturalized in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide.
Care
- Light preference
- Full sun
- Suitable locations
- Outdoor, Balcony, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 5–10 days
- Humidity
- Normal
- Minimum
- 10 °C
- Maximum
- 40 °C
- Optimal
- 20-30 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 9-11
- Soil pH
- 6.0-7.5
- Soil type
- well-draining loam, sandy soil
Watering. Water regularly during dry periods but avoid waterlogging. Once established, it tolerates drought well.
Fertilizing. This tree usually does not need much fertilizer because it can fix nitrogen from the air. However, a balanced fertilizer can be applied during the growing season to support growth if soil is poor.
Leucaena leucocephala is a hardy and fast-growing tree that tolerates dry conditions well. It needs full sun and well-drained soil to thrive. It is low-maintenance but may require pruning to control its size and shape.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Seeds, Cuttings
- Care difficulty
- Easy
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- spring-summer
Feathery green leaves, round white flower clusters, and a spreading canopy provide a pleasant appearance.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Mildly toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Mildly toxic
- Weed potential
- Potentially invasive
Leucaena seeds contain compounds that can be toxic if eaten in large amounts. Keep away from children and pets to avoid accidental ingestion.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Pollen
- Pollen level
- Moderate
Leucaena leucocephala may cause mild allergic reactions in some people, mainly due to its pollen. If you are sensitive to pollen, try to avoid being near the plant when it is flowering to reduce exposure. Symptoms can include sneezing or itchy eyes.
Common problems
If overwatered or planted in poor drainage, the roots may rot. It can become invasive in some areas if not managed properly.
Uses
Used for animal fodder, soil improvement, shade, and erosion control. Also grown as an ornamental tree in tropical gardens.
Notes
Prune regularly to control size and prevent unwanted spreading. In some areas, it is considered invasive, so check local guidelines before planting.