Leucaena leucocephala is a small, fast-growing mimosoid tree native to southern Mexico and northern Central America (Belize and Guatemala), but is now naturalized throughout the tropics. Common names include white leadtree, jumbay,river tamarind, Subabul, and white popinac. The specific name is derived from the Greek words λευκό, meaning "white", and κέφαλος, meaning "head", referring to its flowers. L. leucocephala is used for a variety of purposes, such as firewood, fiber and livestock fodder.