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

Abstract

The growth of two lines of Leucaena leucocephala, four lines of L. pulverulenta, and 19 hybrids between the two species was studied in the glasshouse and in the field. Although the hybrids initially grew more slowly than the control L. leucocephala lines, most outgrew them in the field, yielding up to 50% more edible material (with about 80% of the mimosine level), and up to 100% more non-edible material. It is concluded that these hybrids have considerable potential, especially as dual purpose (forage/fuel) plants. A strategy for producing hybrid seed under field conditions is proposed