Status:
valid
Authors:
S.Watson
Source:
ildis
Year:
1886
Citation Micro:
Proc. Amer. Acad. Arts21: 427 (1886)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000164454
Common Names
- Leucaena
- Leadtree
- Velvetpod
Description
Leucaena lanceolata (also called Lance-leaved Leucaena, among many other common names) is an annual herbaceous plant native to Central America. It has a short stem, with a few branches, and its leaves are pinnate. It grows in dry and rocky soils, in areas with little vegetation.
Uses & Benefits
Leucaena lanceolata is used as a cover crop, for erosion control, and as a nitrogen-fixing plant. It is also used as a forage crop for livestock and as a food source for wildlife.
Cultivars, Varieties & Sub-species
Leucaena lanceolata var. lanceolata
Leucaena lanceolata var. sousae (Zárate) C.E.Hughes
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
The flower of Leucaena lanceolata is a yellow, pea-like flower. The seed is a small, dark brown, flattened bean-like seed. The seedlings are small, light green, and have two leaflets.
Cultivation and Propagation
Leucaena lanceolata is an annual or perennial plant that can be propagated by seed. It prefers full sun and moist, well-drained soil. It can be grown in a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. It is drought tolerant and can tolerate light frost.
Where to Find Leucaena lanceolata
Leucaena lanceolata is native to the southwestern United States and can be found in dry, open woods, fields, and along roadsides.
Leucaena lanceolata FAQ
What is the scientific name of Leucaena lanceolata?
Leucaena lanceolata
What is the common name of Leucaena lanceolata?
Lance-leaved Leadtree
Where is Leucaena lanceolata native to?
Central America
Species in the Leucaena genus
Leucaena esculenta,
Leucaena leucocephala,
Leucaena pulverulenta,
Leucaena collinsii,
Leucaena lanceolata,
Leucaena diversifolia,
Leucaena macrophylla,
Leucaena trichodes,
Leucaena multicapitula,
Leucaena trichandra,
Leucaena salvadorensis,
Leucaena greggii,
Leucaena cuspidata,
Leucaena confertiflora,
Leucaena pueblana,
Leucaena pallida,
Leucaena matudae,
Leucaena magnifica,
Leucaena lempirana,
Leucaena mixtec,
Leucaena spontanea,
Leucaena retusa,
Leucaena shannonii,
Leucaena mixtec,
Leucaena zacapana,
Leucaena involucrata,
Species in the Fabaceae family