Moringa

Grow the miracle tree with Moringa – an extraordinary fast-growing plant known as the drumstick tree, valued worldwide for its nutrient-dense leaves, edible seed pods, and medicinal properties. This tropical superfood tree can grow 10-15 feet in a single season and provides multiple harvests of vitamin-rich leaves and flavorful pods perfect for health-conscious gardeners.

Growing Information

• Days to maturity: 60-90 days for leaf harvest, 150-180 days for pods
• Planting: Direct sow after last frost when soil temperature reaches 70°F, or start indoors 4-6 weeks before transplanting; plant seeds 1/2-1 inch deep
• Spacing: 3-5 feet apart for intensive leaf production, 6-10 feet apart for pod production
• Sun: Full sun (6-8 hours daily)
• Zones: 9-11 (perennial), 3-8 (annual or container plant brought indoors)

Harvest & Use

Harvest young leaves regularly by pinching branch tips to encourage bushier growth and continuous production. Young seed pods (drumsticks) can be harvested when 6-12 inches long and cooked like green beans. Leaves are incredibly nutritious – use fresh in salads, smoothies, or teas, or dry for powder. Pods are delicious in curries, soups, and stir-fries. Seeds can be pressed for oil or used for water purification. In warm climates, trees produce year-round.

Care Tips

Moringa thrives in warm, well-drained soil and tolerates poor soil and drought once established. Water regularly during establishment, then reduce to occasional deep watering. Prune regularly to maintain manageable height and encourage leaf production. In zones 3-8, grow as an annual or in containers that can be brought indoors for winter. Fertilize lightly – moringa grows vigorously with minimal inputs. Companion plant with nitrogen-fixing legumes or herbs for garden diversity.

Why Choose Moringa

This remarkable plant offers exceptional nutrition (leaves contain more vitamin C than oranges, more calcium than milk, and complete protein), rapid growth, and multiple uses from one plant. Whether you're interested in superfoods, medicinal plants, or unique edibles, Moringa delivers extraordinary value and versatility that makes it a fascinating addition to warm-climate gardens or container collections.