Is Leucaena leucocephala invasive?

Is Leucaena leucocephala invasive?

Leucaena leucocephala (hereafter, Leucaena) is a shrub or tree native to Mexico and Central America that grows to heights of 7–18 m. Leucaena is listed as one of the world’s 100 worst invasive alien species in the Global Invasive Species Database [26].

Is Leucaena leucocephala poisonous?

Unfortunately, leucaena contains mimosine, a plant amino acid, that can be toxic when ingested at higher concentrations. Reported toxic effects include alopecia (fur loss), poor body condition, infertility, low birth weight, thyroid gland dysfunction, and organ toxicity.

How fast does Leucaena leucocephala grow?

It has a very fast growth rate: young trees reach a height of more than 20 ft in two to three years.

Where does Leucaena leucocephala grow?

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.

What are the benefits of Ipil Ipil?

– Leaves: Leaves are high in protein and can be used as feed supplement. – Wood: In the Philippines, popular use for reforestation work. Also, used for carving. – Cover crop: Also much used as a cover crop and exterminator of kogon.

Is Leucaena leucocephala nitrogen fixing?

Field trials in the tropics have indicated that using nitrogen-fixing species like Leucaena leucocephala to provide a shading canopy above a stockplant hedge can be very beneficial.

How do you care for Leucaena leucocephala?

Prefers a well-drained soil in full sun[307 ]. Tolerant of a range of soils, including limestone, wet and dry soils, soils of volcanic origin and those with moderate levels of salt[200 , 303 ]. Prefers a pH in the range 6 – 7.7, tolerating 5 – 8.5[418 ].