Common Names: Dapdap, Indian Coral Tree, Sunshine Tree
Family: Fabaceae
Type: Deciduous tree, nitrogen-fixing
Height: 10–15 meters mature height
Key Benefits
- Nitrogen-fixing – enriches soil and supports companion crops
- Shade tree – widely used in plantations (cacao, coffee, agarwood)
- Fodder & forage – nutritious leaves for livestock
- Ornamental – vibrant red-orange flowers, attracts pollinators
- Medicinal – bark and leaves used in traditional remedies
Ideal Growing Conditions
| Factor | Requirement |
|---|
| Climate | Tropical, sub-tropical |
| Elevation | 0–1,500 meters above sea level |
| Soil | Well-drained loam or clay |
| Sunlight | Full sun (6–8 hrs/day) |
| Water | Moderate rainfall, drought-tolerant once established |
Propagation
- By Seeds
- Soak seeds in warm water for 12–24 hours.
- Direct sow in nursery bags or field.
- Germination: 5–10 days.
- By Cuttings
- Use 1.5–2 meter long stem cuttings from mature trees.
- Bury 30–50 cm into the soil; root in 2–4 weeks.
- Easier and faster than seed method.
Planting Guidelines
| Step | Recommendation |
|---|
| Spacing | 4–6 meters apart (shade); 1–2 meters (hedgerow) |
| Planting Season | Rainy season (May–July) |
| Hole Size | 40x40x40 cm; mix soil with compost/manure |
| Mulching | Apply around base to retain moisture |
Maintenance
| Activity | Frequency & Notes |
|---|
| Weeding | Every 2–3 months in first year |
| Pruning | Heavy pruning tolerated; encourages regrowth |
| Fertilizing | Organic compost annually (optional) |
| Pests/Diseases | Generally pest-resistant; check for borers |
Uses in Agroforestry
- Support tree for climbing crops (e.g., black pepper, vanilla)
- Alley cropping for erosion control and green manure
- Windbreaks and boundary markers
- Shade in coffee, cacao, agarwood, or banana systems
Traditional & Medicinal Uses
- Leaves & bark used for treating fever, arthritis, and wounds
- Flowers attract bees and beneficial insects
- Wood: Light and soft, used in carvings and light construction
Precautions
- Leaves may cause mild toxicity in non-ruminants if consumed raw in large amounts.
- Avoid planting too close to structures; roots can be invasive if unmanaged.
