Leucaena leucocephala aka Ipil Ipil

Leucaena leucocephala is an evergreen tree in the pea family. It also grows as a shrub. Names include lead tree, white popinac, and white tamarind. Its native range runs from Mexico into Central America. It grows in tropical regions with a dry season. Wild plants occupy roadsides, waste ground, and coastal sites. They also grow near mangrove edges and old Mayan ruins.

In gardens, it reaches about 33 feet (10 metres) tall. Its spread can also reach 33 feet (10 metres). Broader accounts give heights of 16–66 feet (5–20 metres). The crown is rounded, with gaps between its branches. The trunk is short, and growth is fast. Leaves divide into many fine parts. The tree bears pods that hold edible seeds. Insects pollinate it, and it can also pollinate itself. A single tree can therefore set seed.

Give this tree full sun and soil that drains well. It grows in sand, loam, or clay. It accepts soils ranging from very acid to very alkaline. It also tolerates salt in soil and coastal exposure. It prefers dry to moist ground and withstands drought. Its wide root system helps it cope with dry spells. Warm tropical sites suit it best. PFAF lists USDA hardiness zones 9–12. The tree has weed potential, so planting needs care. Useful Tropical Plants reports a Least Concern conservation status.

People plant it for shade, hedges, and windbreaks. It shades crops such as coffee and helps hold soil. It fixes nitrogen and can improve soil fertility. Farmers also grow it for livestock feed and fuel. Its wood supplies material for furniture, paper, and other uses. Leaves, bark, and pods yield dyes in several colours. Dried seeds serve as beads and other ornaments. Growers can cut it back for repeated harvests. It also has a place in tropical ornamental plantings.

Food uses include young leaves, pods, flower buds, and seeds. People steam the young parts or add them to meals. Seeds are eaten fresh, cooked, or fermented into foods. Roasted dry seeds can serve as a coffee substitute. Gum from the plant is used to thicken sauces. These food uses do not mean unrestricted eating is safe. The leaves contain mimosene, which can harm people in large amounts. Sources also record medicinal use of seeds, roots, and bark. Root and bark preparations have been used to induce abortion.