Leucaena Varieties
(Leucaena diversifolia, L. leucocephala, L. pallida X L. leucocephala)
The genus Leucaena includes several multipurpose tree species and interspecific hybrids that can withstand almost any type or frequency of pruning or coppicing. They are native to Mexico and Central America, and now abundant in the Philippines, West Africa, Nepal, Australia and Hawaii. Spanish sailing vessels reportedly introduced Leucaena to Asia four centuries ago. A total of thirteen species of Leucaena, mostly shrub species, are distributed within the New World tropics and subtropics.
K-156
An accession of L. diversifolia from Veracruz, Mexico that was widely distributed by the University of Hawaii. This species grows best at higher elevations, 300m or above. This variety is very susceptible to psyllid damage.
K-784
Proven to be the most psyllid resistant variety of L. diversifolia. This species grows best at higher elevations, 300m or above.
K-6 Peruvian
A variety of L. leucocephala from Peru that exhibits excessive branching and therefore more foliage. This variety will grow very tall unless pruned or coppiced and is usually used for forage.
K-67
A Hawaiian giant type of L. leucocephala bred in El Salvador for seed production, timber, and fuelwood.
K-8
A Hawaiian giant variety of L. leucocephala that is used mainly for timber and can grow to 20m height in five years.
KX2 Hawaii
A hybrid of L.pallida and L. leucocephala developed at the University of Hawaii. It has excellent psyllid resistance, cold tolerance, and is suited for elevations between sea level and 1000 m. This, and other hybrids with L. leucocephala, were crossed to provide resistance to a psyllid that seriously affect L. leucophala. KX2 is used mainly as a forage but also provides fuelwood and shade.
UHDP
Reddish brown pods (when mature),from the UHDP Center in Northern Thailand. Red leucaena has been promoted by the Mindanao Baptist Rural Life Center for its tolerance of acidic soil and as a psyllid resistant alternative to L. leucocephala.
K-500 Cunningham
An excellent forage variety developed in Australia. A cross-breed between Salvador and Peru-type cultivars.