Quickstick
Gliricidia sepium · Fabaceae
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around quickstick and prepare for winter.
ID card
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Type
- Tree
- Foliage
- Deciduous to semi-evergreen
- Flowering
- Spring to summer (pink-mauve flowers)
- Adult size
- 6 to 12 m in height
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Sensitive to cold (tropical to subtropical climate)
- Origin
- Central and South America
Care
Light exposure
Gliricidia sepium prefers full sun exposure for optimal flowering. This tree also tolerates partial shade but develops a less compact form. Position it in an open space to avoid root competition.
Watering
Water regularly during the growing season (spring-summer), keeping the soil moist but without waterlogging. Once established, the tree tolerates moderate dry periods thanks to its deep root system. Reduce watering in winter or during the dry season.
Soil type
Gliricidia sepium adapts to a wide range of soils, from poor earth to enriched soils. It prefers good drainage and benefits from slightly acidic to neutral soil. Adding organic matter at planting time promotes root establishment.
Fertilization
Enrich the soil at planting time with compost or well-decomposed manure. Moderate fertilization in spring, suited to trees, can support growth and flowering. Avoid excessive nitrogen applications that would favor foliage at the expense of flowers.
Pruning and structure
Intervene mainly after flowering to balance the silhouette and remove dead or poorly oriented branches. Light pruning improves internal aeration. This tree tolerates pruning well and is sometimes used as a dense living hedge in appropriate regions.
Diseases and pests
Gliricidia sepium is generally robust but dreads overly humid environments that favor fungi. Check for the absence of parasites after purchase. Ensure good drainage and air circulation to prevent fungal infections.
Did you know?
Gliricidia sepium is called the 'death tree' in Spanish (árbol de muerto) because its seeds are toxic to livestock: they contain dangerous cyanogenic compounds. Despite this sinister name, this tree is highly valued in agroforestry for fixing soil nitrogen and enriching pastures with healthy foliage, provided the seeds are not ingested.
Where to buy it
Best planted in autumn so the roots settle in before summer, or in early spring once the frost has passed. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, October, November.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
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- Honey locustGleditsia triacanthos
- Hairy greenweedGenista pilosa
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.