Moringa family
Description
A small monotypic family of deciduous shrubs occurring in tropical Africa, from Arabia to West India and in the Mediterranian region (Moringaceae 1).
The alternate leaves are 2-4 times pinnate. The irregular flowers are borne in axillary inflorescences, each flower with 5 fused sepals and 5 free petals, 5 stamens and a superior ovary. The fruit is a long pod splitting into 3 valves.
Use
Young leaves and fruits are eaten as a vegetable; ben oil is extracted from the ripe seeds.
Described species
Moringa oleifera, horseradish tree