Sesbania (Sesbania grandiflora), also known as the vegetable hummingbird or agati, is a fast-growing leguminous tree native to South and Southeast Asia. It produces large, showy flowers — typically white or red — that are eaten as a vegetable in Thai, Indonesian, Filipino, and Indian cuisines.
The flowers have a mild, slightly bitter, mushroom-like flavour and a soft, fleshy texture. They are commonly used in curries, soups, stir-fries, and salads, or battered and fried. Beyond the flowers, the young leaves and tender pods are also edible. Sesbania is valued in tropical agriculture as a nitrogen-fixing tree that improves soil fertility, and it is sometimes planted as a cover crop or green manure.
How it's produced
Sesbania is grown from seed in tropical and subtropical climates. It is remarkably fast-growing, capable of reaching several metres in height within its first year. The tree requires minimal care once established, tolerating poor soils, drought, and waterlogging better than most crops.
Flowers are hand-picked as they bloom, which in tropical conditions can be year-round. Sesbania is typically grown in home gardens, small farms, and along field borders rather than in large monoculture plantations. It is not commercially cultivated in Australia but can be grown in tropical northern regions.
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≈ Estimated from its category — typical for vegetables, not measured for this item yet. Sources & methods →
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