Leucaena (Leucaena leucocephala)

Family: Fabaceae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Leucaena leucocephala or commonly known as Leucaena, Lead Tree, or White Tamarind is a fast-growing, evergreen shrub or tree with a height of up to 20m. A native to southern Mexico and northern Central America, it has an open, rounded crown and short bole of up to 50 cm in diameter. It is highly tolerant to drought mainly because of its extensive root system. It is also planted to prevent soil erosion and as a shade plant for plantation crops.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Nuts/Seeds, Leaves, Flowers

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Young leaves, pods and flower buds - raw, steamed, in soups, with rice or mixed with chillies and other spices. Some caution is advised - see the notes above on toxicity. Seeds - raw or cooked. — Young leaves, pods and flower buds - raw, steamed, in soups, with rice or mixed with chillies and other spices.; Some caution is advised - see the notes above on toxicity.; Seeds - raw or cooked.; The unripe seeds are mixed with grated coconut, wrapped in banana leaves and cooked.

Habitat & North American Range

Dry coastal regions, waste ground. (Zone 9)