Neea psychotrioides, Rare Tropical Hojas de Salat Tree - Live Plant

Rare Tropical Tree with Edible Leaves and Rich Cultural Heritage The Hoja de Salat (Neea psychotrioides), also known as Salat Tree or Hoja Salad, is a rare tropical evergreen native to Central America and parts of the Caribbean. This slow-growing tree or large shrub features shiny, deep-green leaves that are both edible and aromatic, used traditionally as a fresh green or flavorful wrap in regional cuisines. Its smooth gray bark, dense branching habit, and lush canopy make it a beautiful ornamental addition to tropical and subtropical gardens. Beyond its beauty, Neea psychotrioides carries deep cultural and ecological value, thriving in hot, humid climates where few leafy edibles can. Cultural & Culinary Significance In Central America—particularly Belize, Honduras, and Guatemala—Hoja de Salat has long been prized for its edible, mildly tangy leaves, which are eaten fresh in salads, wrapped around other foods, or used as herbal greens. In traditional foodways, it bridges the worlds of nourishment and medicine: the leaves are sometimes steeped for teas or tonics believed to support digestion and vitality. Its versatility and resilience have made it a beloved home garden plant across tropical regions, where it’s as much a part of daily cooking as it is a part of living cultural heritage. Why Grow Hoja de Salat? Rare tropical evergreen with edible, salad-quality leaves Traditional food plant across Central America and the Caribbean Dense, glossy foliage adds beauty and texture to edible landscapes Tolerant of heat, humidity, and varied tropical soils Connects your garden to centuries of cultural and culinary tradition Growing Tips Plant in full sun to partial shade in moist, well-drained soil. Hoja de Salat thrives in warm, humid climates and adapts well to sandy or loamy soils. Water regularly, especially during dry spells, and protect from frost or cold winds. It grows slowly but steadily, forming a dense, multi-branched shrub or small tree about 8–15 feet tall. Hardy in USDA Zones 9b–11, it can also be grown in containers in cooler regions and overwintered indoors. Light pruning encourages branching and fresh leaf growth for harvest. Quick Facts Attribute Details Botanical Name Neea psychotrioides Common Names Hoja de Salat, Salat Tree, Hoja Salad Family Nyctaginaceae Origin Central America, Caribbean Plant Type Evergreen tropical shrub or small tree Life Cycle Perennial Mature Size 8–15 ft tall x 6–10 ft wide Light Full sun to partial shade Water Needs Moderate; prefers regular moisture Soil Well-drained, sandy or loamy soil Bloom Time Intermittent year-round in warm climates Flower Color Small, white to pale pink USDA Zones 9b–11 Florida Native No Propagation Seeds, cuttings Seasonal Traits Evergreen Time to Harvest 1–2 years for leaf harvest; ongoing thereafter This plant ships in plantable coconut coir pots or recyclable nursery pots! Just pop them in the ground or reuse and recycle. Look in the photos for a pot size guide.