Evaluating hybrids between Leucaena leucocephala and L. pulverulenta as potential forage plants.

Abstract

A study of the growth of L. leucocephala, L. pulverulenta and hybrids between the 2 species in the greenhouse and in the field showed that the hybrids initially grew more slowly than L. leucocephala, but by age 6 wk had caught up and soon were outgrowing it. L. pulverulenta initially grew at a rate similar to that of the hybrids, but soon slowed. The hybrids yielded up to 50% more edible material (with about 80% of the mimosine content) and up to 100% more non-edible material. It is concluded that the hybrids have considerable potential as dual-purpose forage/fuel plants. A strategy for producing hybrid seed under field conditions is proposed.