The versatile tropical tree Moringa stenopetala is more drought-resistant than its high-profile cousin, Moringa oleifera, and likewise produces “superfood” nutrient-rich leafy greens. Known commonly as the African Moringa, this species is native to Ethiopia and Kenya, where aside from being a valued food source (all parts but the wood are edible), it is used extensively in traditional medicine. Powdered African Moringa seeds can also purify water as a natural coagulant. In agroforestry, trees are planted to create windbreaks with vigorous and bushy growth. They reach a maximum height of 15 m, or for easier harvesting, trees can be cut back and kept below 1.5 m tall. A quickly developing species, M. stenopetala usually reaches reproductive maturity in two and a half years and can afterwards flower and fruit year round. Its disproportionately thick caudiciform trunk, bloated to store water during dry seasons, has unique ornamental appeal. Harvest the young shoots and leaves (larger and milder when raw compared to M. oleifera) and young pods, in addition to the seeds, flowers, and bark (used as a horseradish-like condiment). The African Moringa can tolerate partial shade (though full sun is preferable) and light frosts; it may survive a heavier freeze by dying back and resprouting at ground level. A typical tree will remain productive until the end of its lifetime of up to one hundred years.

Suitable for outdoor planting in USDA plant hardiness zones 10b to 11 

Minimum tested germination rate is 76% 

Collected in 2023 in Kenya