Moringa
Moringa oleifera
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Quick Info
water
Drought tolerant once established, moderate watering
spacing
3 m for trees, 30 cm for leaf harvest hedgerows
depth
2 cm deep (seeds) or 30 cm (cuttings)
sun
Full sun
season
Year-round in tropics, plant at start of rains
frost
Frost sensitive, regrows from base
height
5-10 m (tree), 1-2 m (hedgerow harvest)
gemination
5-12 days
sprout to harvest
60-90 days for first leaf harvest
soil ph
6.0-7.0
soil type
Well-drained sandy loam, tolerates poor soils
fertilizer needs
Low - grows in poor soils, responds to compost
About
Moringa is called the "miracle tree" for its exceptional nutritional and medicinal value. It grows extremely fast in PNG lowland and mid-altitude areas, tolerates poor soils and drought, and every part of the tree is useful. Leaves are one of the most nutrient-dense foods on earth, making it ideal for combating malnutrition.
Health Benefits
Leaves contain 7x vitamin C of oranges, 4x calcium of milk, 4x vitamin A of carrots, 3x potassium of bananas, and 2x protein of yoghurt. Rich in iron, all essential amino acids, and antioxidants. Used traditionally for inflammation, diabetes, and infection.
Market Requirements
Fresh leaves sold in bundles. Dried leaf powder is a growing market product. Leaves should be bright green, not yellowed. Powder should be fine, bright green, and stored in airtight containers.