Melia azedarach

Melia azedarach 

Melia azedarach, also known as the Chinaberry tree or Bead tree, is a deciduous ornamental tree that is native to China, Southeast Asia, and the Indian subcontinent. It is widely grown for its showy and fragrant lavender-blue flowers, which are followed by clusters of yellow berries that resemble beads. Here are some of the key features of this tree:

Common Name: Chinaberry tree or Bead tree

Mature Height (meters): 6 - 12 m (approx)

Mature Width (meters): 6 - 9 m (approx)

Spacing: 4-6 meters

Foliage: Deciduous, pinnately compound leaves with 11-25 leaflets that are green in color, turning yellow in autumn.

Flowering period: Late spring to early summer

Form/ Habit: Upright, vase-shaped or spreading habit

Uses: Shade tree, street tree, specimen tree, or ornamental tree.

Evergreen/ Deciduous: Deciduous tree (loses its leaves in winter)

Tolerates: Melia azedarach is adaptable to different soil types, pH levels, and can tolerate drought and heat. It can also grow in polluted environments and tolerate light frost.

Sun: Full sun to partial shade

Maintenance: Low-maintenance

Water requirement: Moderate watering is required when young, and less watering when matured.

How to Plant:

Plant Melia azedarach in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It prefers full sun to partial shade, and it can tolerate a wide range of soil types and pH levels. Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball and deep enough to accommodate it. Fill in the hole with soil and firm it around the base of the tree. Water thoroughly after planting and keep the soil consistently moist until the tree becomes established.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: How fast does Melia azedarach grow? A: This tree has moderate to fast growth, reaching up to 1.5 to 2 meters per year under ideal conditions.

Q: Are the berries of Melia azedarach poisonous? A: Yes, the fruits of this tree contain toxic alkaloids that can be harmful to humans and animals if ingested. It's best to avoid planting it near areas where children or pets play.

Q: How do I prune Melia azedarach? A: Pruning is not necessary, but if needed, it's best to do it in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. Remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches, and shape the tree as desired.

Melia azedarach is a low-maintenance tree that can add beauty and fragrance to your garden with its lavender-blue flowers and yellow bead-like fruits. It's a great choice for shade, specimen, or ornamental tree, and it can tolerate various growing conditions, making it a versatile addition to any landscape.