Moringaceae

Defining Characteristics

• Alternate , bi- to tripinnately compound deciduous leaves with many small leaflets
• Zygomorphic (bilaterally symmetrical) flowers with 5 petals, 5 sepals , and 5 fertile stamens + 5 staminodes
• Fruit an elongated, three-valved capsule (drumstick), splitting open to release winged seeds
• Tuberous or swollen trunk base for water storage — adaptation to arid environments
• Fast-growing, drought-tolerant trees

Notable Genera

• Moringa (the sole genus — ~13 species)

Notes

A single-genus family with all species native to tropical and subtropical Africa and Asia. Moringa oleifera is one of the most nutritionally valuable food plants in the tropics — leaves contain high levels of protein, vitamins, and minerals. Seeds can purify water through flocculation. Placed in Brassicales based on molecular data, making it a relative of mustard and cabbage despite its tree habit.