Java Sesbania (Sesbania javanica) NEW

Description: Sesbania javanica, commonly known as sesbania, is a fast growing leguminous shrub that is well suited to warm tropical and subtropical climates. It can rapidly produce substantial green biomass while fixing atmospheric nitrogen through its root nodules. This makes it valuable as a soil improving plant, particularly in young food forests, degraded areas and systems where building organic matter quickly is a priority.

In a permaculture system, sesbania can be used as a nitrogen fixing pioneer, living mulch, windbreak and source of chop and drop material. Its soft, fast growing branches can be regularly pruned and returned directly to the soil, providing nitrogen rich organic matter around fruit trees and other crops. It can also be used to create temporary shade and shelter for slower growing plants while the wider food forest establishes.