This large tree (18 - 20 m) is native to highland Mexico. It occurs at altitudes from 1000 - 2200 m and is cold tolerant, often losing its leaves in severe cold. It is slower growing than leucaena but wood yields are high. The leaves are low in mimosine and it does not produce seed as prolifically as leucaena.
In Mexico, the Zapotec people eat the immature green bean as a vegetable. They are stripped from their pods and eaten as a side dish with salt or used in soups, salads and tortillas. They have a garlic flavour. The leaves are also edible. Some plants have a thick corky bark which may be able to be utilised.