Red leucaena

Leucaena diversifolia (Schltdl.) Benth.

Leucaena diversifolia (Schltdl.) Benth., known as red leucaena, is a flowering plant in the Fabaceae family. Native to Mexico and Guatemala, it has been introduced globally as cattle fodder. It is invasive and often hybridizes with Leucaena leucocephala.

Description

Leucaena diversifolia is a member of the legume family Fabaceae. It is native to Mexico and Guatemala and has been cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions as a fodder plant. The species is known for its aggressive invasiveness, similar to its close relative Leucaena leucocephala. It has been introduced to numerous countries, including Brazil, India, and Vietnam, where it can outcompete native vegetation. Commonly called red leucaena, it is sometimes referred to as wild tamarind. The species was first described in 1842.