The miracle moringa tree
A fast growing deciduous tree, the (Moringa Oleifera) is indeed a miracle tree. Also known as the horseradish tree, it is native to India. It is now being grown in the tropics as a nutritious food crop. It is becoming a popular tree for South Florida.
All parts of this amazing tree are edible, with some cautions.
It can grow to 25 feet if not frequently cut back. It is not a huge tree rather a drooping form of green lacy leaves and drooping bunches of yellowish /white flowers. The tree will flower twice a year quite often, depending on its care.
The leaves alone have 7 times the amount of vitamin C of oranges; 4 times the vitamin A of carrots; 4 times the calcium of milk; 3 times the potassium of a banana and 2 times the protein of yogurt.
The roots of the tree are used to make a horseradish-like sauce, however the roots contain toxins so you best be knowledgeable of your recipe.
The leaves are great in smoothes, and will add a peppy bite to a dish such as potato salad and soups. When cooking, add the leaves near the end, and do not boil, as that will cause a loss of nutrients.
You can also make a tea with the leaves and the flowers.
At a recent Garden Club tour of a Cape Coral Middle School, we were treated to a cool drink of mooring tea. It was good just plain, or with lemon or lime added. I did not see a need for any sweetener but some people may.
The flowers may bloom twice a year depending on the heat and rainfall.
Keeping the tree trimmed moderately will make it easier to reach the leaves and the flowers.
To make a cup of tea, bring 1 1/2 cups of tea to a near boil, steep 1/2 cup of dried leaves or flowers for 3 or 4 minutes. Do not boil leaves.
I know first hand of people who chew the leaves because of their medicinal powers. They swear that the leaves do them good. When you believe, it works.
A really great bizarre quality of the morning seeds is that they are able to purify water. A few dried, crushed seeds can purify a whole bottle of contaminated water.
Try this at home, if you happen to have some contaminated water setting around.
A popular place for planting these trees nowadays is in Haiti. A lot of miracle things are needed there.
The tree can be started easily from seeds, however the pods need to be fully ripe before collecting them.
The dark brown globular seeds are inside the hanging 3-sided brown capsules. Mother nature sends the seeds away on the wind and water when they are mature.
This tree is sun tolerant, and prefers a slightly acid soil. It needs well drained sandy soil and does not tolerate wet roots.
To receive excellent seed and tree cultivation information, check out ECHO Inc. in North Fort Myers. This is also a great place to visit.
Wishing everyone a safe and Happy Thanksgiving, till we meet again.
H.I. Jean Shields is Past President of the Garden Club of Cape Coral.