White Leadtree

leucaena leucocephala

Also known as: ["Ipil-ipil","White Leadtree"]

Family: Fabaceae Genus: Leucaena Category: Trees

Overview

A fast-growing leguminous tree native to the Americas, valued for forage, timber, and soil improvement.

Benefits & Perks

["fast growing","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Fabales
Family: Fabaceae
Genus: Leucaena
Botanical Name: Leucaena leucocephala

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Trees
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden in tropical or subtropical regions
  • Suitable For:
    Busy People (low Maintenance) Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–40°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; tolerates poor soils.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: low
  • Toughness Level: high
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually in spring; light pruning can be done as needed.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but may reduce flowering.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to full sun gradually; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent sunburn.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves (overwatering); stunted growth (poor soil); root rot (poor drainage).

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

moderate

Sunlight

full sun

Rotate plant for even light; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid direct sun on leaves during peak hours.

Watering

every 7–10 days during dry periods, less frequently in rainy seasons

Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry partially between waterings, avoid waterlogging.

Soil

well-drained, sandy or loamy soil

pH: 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral).

Ensure good drainage; avoid heavy clay; amend with organic matter.

Temperature

Thrives in 20–35°C; tolerates 10–40°C; prefers warm, tropical conditions.

Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; ensure good air circulation.

Fertilizing

every 2–3 months during active growth with balanced fertilizer

Fertilize lightly; avoid over-fertilization; apply to moist soil to prevent root burn.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are faster and more reliable.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Apply rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Maintain humidity.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.

Environment

High humidity (70–90%), warm (24–30°C), indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.

Hormone

Rooting hormone recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots in 4–6 weeks; establish in 3–6 months.

Tools Needed

Pruners, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Thinning cuts to open canopy; heading back to encourage branching.

Pruning Plan

Shape plant, remove dead/diseased growth, encourage bushier growth; best done in spring.

Tools

Pruning shears, loppers, gloves.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune dead/diseased wood; make clean cuts; dispose of clippings.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring before active growth begins.

Pot Size

One size larger pot; ensure drainage holes.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill container; beneficial for growth and health.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; water before repotting; place in shade for recovery.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture with finger; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust seasonally.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early morning or late evening to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away.

Pro Tip: Use a soaker hose to deliver water directly to the roots, reducing waste and leaf wetness.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once per week during active growth; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in winter or drought; adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.

Soil Improvement

Add compost or aged manure for fertility; mix sand or perlite for drainage; use mulch to retain moisture.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Chlorosis or leaf drop in cold stress; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.

Cold Stress

Growth slows or halts below 10°C; prolonged cold can cause dieback or death.

Solution: Provide frost protection; move to a warmer location; use mulch to insulate roots.

Hot Stress

Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may slow under prolonged heat.

Solution: Provide partial shade; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use balanced fertilizer; apply during growing season; water after fertilizing.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring; dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength monthly during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Leucaena leucocephala may indicate nutrient deficiencies, such as nitrogen or iron, water stress, or pest infestations, which can impair photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Leucaena leucocephala is often a sign of water stress, either due to drought or root issues, which can lead to reduced nutrient uptake and potential plant death if not addressed.

Leaf spots on Leucaena leucocephala are typically caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, resulting in reduced photosynthetic capacity, premature leaf drop, and potential spread to other parts of the plant.

Rotting in Leucaena leucocephala, particularly root or stem rot, is commonly caused by fungal pathogens in waterlogged soils, leading to decay of plant tissues, reduced vigor, and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Cats are also susceptible to the toxic effects of mimosine in Leucaena leucocephala, which can cause severe gastrointestinal upset, metabolic imbalances, and neurological symptoms. The plant should be kept out of reach of cats.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy tremors neurological signs
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds pods leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Ensure cats cannot access the plant. Contact a veterinarian if ingestion is suspected.
Dogs
Toxic

The mimosine content in Leucaena leucocephala is toxic to dogs, leading to gastrointestinal distress, metabolic disturbances, and potential neurological issues. Prolonged exposure may result in severe health complications.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy loss of appetite neurological signs
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds pods leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep dogs away from the plant. If ingestion is suspected, seek veterinary attention immediately.
Humans
Toxic

Leucaena leucocephala contains mimosine, a toxic amino acid that can cause severe physiological effects, including goiter, hair loss, and neurological damage upon prolonged or excessive ingestion. The plant's seeds and pods are particularly concentrated in this compound.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea hair loss goiter neurological impairment
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds pods leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid consumption of any part of the plant. Keep away from food preparation areas and ensure pets and children do not have access to it.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Leucaena leucocephala toxic to pets?

A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats.

Q: What are the uses of Leucaena leucocephala?

A: It is used for forage, timber, and as a soil improver due to nitrogen fixation.

Q: Is Leucaena leucocephala invasive?

A: Yes, it is considered an invasive species in many regions outside its native range.

Quick Reference
Family: Fabaceae
Care: easy
Light: full sun
Water: every 7–10 days during dry p
Suitable For: ["busy people (low maintenance)","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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