The plant prefers highland climates and can thrive at altitudes ranging from 1000 to 2200 meters. It is cold tolerant and may shed its leaves during periods of severe cold.
Guaje
The eucaena eculena, also known as guaje, is a large tree native to highland Mexico. It is cold tolerant and slower growing than leucaena, but it has high wood yields. The immature green beans are commonly eaten by the Zapotec people and have a garlic flavor.
eucaena eculena
Mexico
- The guaje tree is also known as Eucaena eculena. - It is a large tree, reaching heights of 18-20 meters. - Native to highland Mexico, it thrives at altitudes between 1000-2200 meters. - The guaje tree is cold tolerant and may shed its leaves in severe cold. - It has slower growth compared to leucaena, but it yields high-quality wood. - The leaves of the guaje tree have low levels of mimosine. - While it does produce seeds, it is not as prolific as leucaena. - In Mexico, the Zapotec people consume the immature green beans as a vegetable. - The beans are typically stripped from their pods and enjoyed as a side dish with salt or used in soups, salads, and tortillas. - The guaje beans have a distinct garlic flavor. - Additionally, the leaves of the guaje tree are edible. - Some guaje plants have a thick, corky bark that may have potential uses.
Prefers well-drained soil.
This large tree (18 - 20 m) is native to highland Mexico. It occurs at altitudes from 1000 - 2200 m and is cold tolerant, often losing its leaves in severe cold. It is slower growing than leucaena but wood yields are high. The leaves are low in mimosine and it does not produce seed as prolifically as leucaena.
In Mexico, the Zapotec people eat the immature green bean as a vegetable. They are stripped from their pods and eaten as a side dish with salt or used in soups, salads and tortillas. They have a garlic flavour. The leaves are also edible. Some plants have a thick corky bark which may be able to be utilised.