Gliricidia
Gliricidia sepiumfam. Fabaceae
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Pl. 57C2 — Gliricidia sepium
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IOverview
Overview
Gliricidia sepium, commonly known as Gliricidia, is a tree native to Central and parts of South America. It thrives in full sun and moist, light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils with a pH between 5 and 7. This hardy plant can grow up to 10 meters tall and is known for its edible flowers and leaves, making it valuable as both food and ornamental plant. Its native range includes countries such as Belize, Brazil North, Brazil South, Colombia, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Panamá. One distinctive feature of Gliricidia is its ability to fix nitrogen in the soil, enhancing fertility for other plants.
Quick answers
What is Gliricidia?
Gliricidia sepium, commonly known as Gliricidia, is a tree native to Central and parts of South America. It thrives in full sun and moist, light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils with a pH between 5 and 7.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Gliricidia thrives in full sun and requires moist but well-drained soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in temperate regions with zones 10-12. This tree grows up to 10 meters tall and produces edible flowers and leaves. Propagate via seeds or cuttings. Ensure the planting site has good drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
10-12
Habit
Tree
Mature size
10.0 m tall
Soil pH
5–7
For first-time growers
How to grow Gliricidia for the first time
8steps
Start with Gliricidia as a simple, low-maintenance tree for your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Gliricidia sapling and some basic gardening tools like a spade and watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring or early summer when the weather is warm and stable.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a well-draining spot with light, medium, or heavy soil. Ensure the area gets full sun.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young saplings directly into the ground after any risk of frost has passed.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for pests and diseases.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide regular watering, especially during dry spells. Prune lightly in late winter or early spring.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune to maintain shape and remove dead branches as needed. Harvest leaves and flowers for composting or mulch.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in poorly drained soil, neglecting regular pruning.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FlowersLeaves
Edible uses: The flowers and leaves of Gliricidia are edible. The leaves can be eaten fresh or cooked, while the flowers are often used raw in salads. Both parts are commonly consumed in their natural state without extensive preparation.
Other uses:BiomassFire starterFencingAnimal feedLumberCover cropHedgerowPioneerPlant supportWind breakerSoil conditionerErosion controlCoppiceNitrogen fixer
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
17 native · 13 introduced
Distribution
17 native · 13 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 17 native· 13 introduced
Asia1 region
introduced (1)India
Americas11 regions
native (7)BelizeColombiaCosta RicaEl SalvadorGuatemalaHondurasNicaragua
introduced (4)GuyanaHaitiJamaicaUnited States
Africa2 regions
introduced (2)CameroonComoros
Broader regions
native:Southwest Caribbean, Mexico Central, Panamá, Mexico Southwest, Mexico Gulf, Mexico Northwest, Brazil North, Mexico Southeast, Mexico Northeast, Brazil South
introduced:Cayman Is., Borneo, Caroline Is., Jawa, Leeward Is., Bismarck Archipelago
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Fabaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Fabaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
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Growing zone
XII
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