Moringa
Scientific Name: Moringa oleifera
Also known as: Drumstick tree, miracle tree, horseradish tree, ben-oil tree
Moringa is an exceptionally fast-growing tropical tree prized primarily for its edible leaves, flowers, and long seed pods. Native to the Indian subcontinent, it thrives in hot weather, handles drought once established, and responds extremely well to pruning. In South Louisiana, it can be grown as a warm-season edible tree or maintained as a smaller, repeatedly harvested shrub.
At a Glance
🌱 Type
Tropical leafy vine🪴
Container Friendly
✅ Yes
💧 Water
Low to Moderate
🌎 Growing Zone
Zone 9-10 as a tender perennial
☀️ Sun
Full Sun
Why Grow It?
Thrives in hot summer weather
Extremely fast growing
Produces edible leaves, flowers, pods, and seeds
Handles drought well once established
Responds well to heavy pruning
Can be kept compact for easier leaf harvesting
Growing Tips
Plant in full sun and very well-drained soil.
Avoid low spots where Louisiana rain can leave roots waterlogged.
Water regularly while young, then reduce watering once established.
Prune often to encourage branching and easier leaf harvests.
Expect extremely fast summer growth—don't be afraid to cut it back.
Protect the trunk/root zone during freezes; severe cold can kill top growth.
Harvest and Uses
Harvest young leaves and tender shoots as needed once the plant is established. Frequent harvesting and pruning encourages branching and produces more accessible leafy growth.
The leaves can be cooked similarly to other leafy greens or added to soups, stews, curries, and sauces. Young green pods—often called drumsticks—are traditionally cooked as a vegetable. Flowers can also be cooked, and mature seeds have culinary and oil-producing uses.
Edible Parts:
Leaves and tender shoots
Flowers
Immature green pods
Seeds
Best Time to Plant in Zone 9B
Pollinator Value
Moringa produces clusters of fragrant cream-colored flowers that are visited and pollinated by insects, including bees.
Native Status
Not native to Louisiana or the United States. Moringa originates in tropical Asia, particularly the Indian subcontinent, and is now widely cultivated throughout tropical and subtropical regions.
One caveat worth knowing: UF/IFAS currently classifies Moringa oleifera as High Invasion Risk in Florida based on its predictive assessment. That is a Florida assessment, not a Louisiana prohibition, but would encourage harvesting mature pods rather than allowing large quantities of seed to disperse unchecked.