Gliricidia as a Beneficial Crop in Resource-Limiting Agroforestry Systems in Sri Lanka.

Abstract

Gliricidia is a medium-sized leguminous tree native to Central America and Mexico that serves multiple purposes. The genus name gliricidia is mainly connected with Gliricidia sepium because it is the most well-known and prevalent species. Gliricidia maculata and Gliricidia brenningii, are lesser known than Gliricidia Sepium and are unfamiliar outside of their native range of tropical America. This species was introduced to Sri Lanka as a shade tree for coffee and tea cultivations, and it has now become a naturalized species in the country. Because of its versatile nature and multipurpose use, scientists have identified gliricidia as a potential crop in the Sri Lankan agroforestry systems. The optimal status and management approach for gliricidia planting in Sri Lanka have been determined through different field studies. The diverse aspects of gliricidia were identified and evaluated in this review article witha focus on botany, potential uses, crop distribution, growing conditions, and critical constraints. The review article concluded that gliricidia is highly beneficial as a fodder crop, for increasing soil fertility and soil moisture conditions, and as a sustainable bioenergy crop for Sri Lankan agroforestry systems. The priority consideration for the promotion of gliricidia-based agroforestry systems in Sri Lanka is the need to enhance awareness programmes and technology transfer services to popularize these farming systems in different agricultural systems.