With a continued interest in edible ornamentals, edible landscapes are a common theme in Florida horticulture. The intentional effort of adding plants to the landscape that are both attractive and edible is a common practice with many gardeners. One such less common plant gaining popularity is the curry leaf tree. This tropical broadleaf evergreen woody plant is used as an herb in many dishes requiring the pungent aromatic ingredients. Just brushing by the curry leaf tree releases an appetizing whiff of savoriness that expands its value to another dimension.
Curry leaf trees are originally from the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia. I first saw this plant at one of our old Demonstration Gardens on Florida Street in Punta Gorda. I eventually ended up with two of my own – one by taking a shoot division from the original plant, and one obtained at a Master Gardener Volunteer Plant sale – probably a seed grown specimen. In either case, the two specimens are about four to six-feet tall now with a similar width. Developing into a multi-stemmed shrub, the attractive pinnate feathery leaves give this plant a fern-like look. Maturing at between six and fifteen feet-tall, clusters of white flowers will emerge during the growing season followed by blue-black fruit. Now the fruit is reportedly edible, but the seed is considered toxic. Conservatively, I would recommend just to avoid eating these berries and keep it away from children and pets. And of course – it is all about the leaves. The best flavor comes from using the fresh leaves – dried leaves do not seem to impart the same appetizing aroma as fresh. While mainly featured in Indian and Asian cuisine, the leaves can be used in all types of dishes and condiments that feature savory flavors.
My two curry leaf trees have done well with minor winter damage on occasion. Easily selectively pruned to keep the size within bounds, they do best in full sun site sheltered from the wind if possible. Besides becoming part of your landscape as an edible ornamental, consider keeping specimens in containers. Containerized curry leaf plants can offer convenience in small space gardens and for ease of mobility if we have a hard freeze and you need to get them undercover indoors. As far as I can see, there are no present reports of the curry leaf tree being invasive in Florida – just keep it contained within your landscape as a good practice.
Curry leaf trees are the epitome of edible ornamentals with an exotic twist. Used more like an herb or a spice, the leaves will elevate your cooking to new heights to satisfy any palate. At the same time, you will have a large ornamental bush that offers texture and color which also complements any landscape plant palette. I would say that this is a win-win in both cases! For more information on all types of unique edible ornamentals suitable for our area, or to ask a question, please visit https://www.facebook.com/CharlotteCountyExtension. You can also call the Master Gardener Volunteer Helpdesk on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 1 to 4 pm at 764-4340 for gardening help and insight into their role as an Extension volunteer. Ralph E. Mitchell is the Director/Horticulture Agent for UF/IFAS Extension Charlotte County. He can be reached at 941-764-4344 or ralph.mitchell@charlottecountyfl.gov. Connect with us on social media. Like us on Facebook @CharlotteCountyExtension and follow us on Instagram @ifascharco.
Resources:
Murraya koenigii – Missouri Botanical Garden (2026) https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d441 .
Indiana University Bloomington (2026) Murraya koenigii. Department of Biology. https://greenhouse.biology.indiana.edu/features/fragrant/murraya-koenigii.html.
Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden (2026) Murraya koenigii. https://orders.fairchildgarden.org/products/murraya-koenigii
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