Melia - Neem Tree: Planting and Growing

Botany and description

The botanical genus *Melia*, best known for its most famous species, *Melia azedarach* (Margosa tree or Persian lilac), belongs to the Meliaceae family. The *Melia* genus comprises five species: *Melia dubia* (syn. *Melia composita*), *Melia floribunda*, *Melia candoleii*, *Melia parasitica*, and *Melia azedarach*.

**The species of the *Melia* genus are primarily native to tropical and subtropical regions of Asia and Australia.** They are adapted to varied climates, ranging from warm temperate zones to tropical regions. *Melia* species are naturally found in diverse habitats. They generally prefer well-drained soils and can be found in forests, wooded areas, and sometimes in urban settings where they are planted as ornamental trees. Their adaptability allows them to thrive in a variety of environmental conditions.

The Margosa tree, or *Melia azedarach*, is a tree that captivates attention at first glance. **Standing with natural elegance, it boasts a rounded, sometimes asymmetrical silhouette that can reach up to 15 metres in height.** Its presence in a garden or urban landscape is all the more remarkable due to its majestic habit and well-defined tiers.

The bark of the Margosa tree, greyish-brown in colour, tells the story of its growth over the years, cracking slightly with age. **The foliage is deciduous** and is a spectacle in itself. Its pinnate leaves, delicate and light, create a play of shadows and light, particularly soothing on sunny days. The leaf colour **is green in season, turning yellow in autumn**.

**In spring, the Margosa tree adorns itself with clusters of small lilac or purple flowers, emitting a subtle and pleasant fragrance.** Each flower is small, with five petals. The floral clusters can be quite voluminous, giving the tree a very floriferous and spectacular appearance in spring. These flowers are not only a feast for the eyes but also a gathering point for bees and butterflies.

An exquisite flowering (© HQ)

**Fruiting follows flowering, giving rise to spherical drupes, initially green and turning yellow as they ripen.** These fruits, though decorative, should be handled with care as they are toxic to humans. The Margosa tree reaches sexual maturity quite quickly, often just a few years after planting.

The fruits of the Margosa tree. Right photo ©Wikimedia Commons

Inside each fruit, seeds await their turn to perpetuate the life cycle of this remarkable tree. These seeds are typically brown, hard, and smooth, with a modest size, suited for dispersal by birds and other animals that consume the fruits.

The Margosa tree is not just an ornamental tree; it is also used in various traditional practices, notably for its medicinal and insecticidal properties.

A few varieties

Melia azedarach

Small deciduous tree with compound leaves, notable for its summer flowering in panicles of mauve lilac, fragrant flowers, followed by clusters of pale yellow fruits, remaining decorative after the leaves fall. Discreet, it blends easily into a group of evergreen bushes.

• Periodo di fioritura June to August
• Altezza a maturità 9 m

See the product sheet

Melia azedarach Jade Snowflake

The Melia Jade Snowflake is a cultivar introduced in the states of Georgia and South Carolina around 1830. This 'Jade Snowflake' cultivar bears pinnate foliage with a light appearance, randomly marbled in various shades of white and green.

• Periodo di fioritura June to August
• Altezza a maturità 9 m

See the product sheet

Planting the Neem Tree

Where to Plant?

The Neem tree prefers sunny locations. A spot that receives full sun for most of the day is ideal for its growth and flowering. However, it can thrive in partial shade, or even in shade for variegated varieties, though it will be less floriferous in such conditions.

It adapts to a variety of soil types but prefers well-drained soils. Avoid areas where water tends to stagnate.

Choose a location sheltered from strong winds, as its wood is quite brittle.

Although hardy and adaptable, the Neem tree thrives best in temperate to tropical climates. It can withstand short periods of frost, but extremely low temperatures can damage the tree. It is only hardy down to -9°C and in well-drained soil.

Given its potential size and spreading habit, it is important to plant the Neem tree in a sufficiently large space to accommodate its growth. Additionally, as the fruits of the Neem tree are toxic to humans and some pets, it is advisable to plant this tree at a distance from children’s play areas or areas frequented by pets.

Melia Azedarach ( ©Wendy Cutler)

When to Plant?

In temperate regions, planting is best done in early spring (April), once all risk of frost has passed. This allows the tree to establish itself during the growing season before facing its first winter. In milder climates, it is better planted in October.

How to Plant?

1. Dig the hole: Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and slightly deeper. This allows the roots to spread easily into the surrounding soil.
2. Place the tree: Remove the tree from its container and gently loosen the roots if they are coiled. Place the tree in the hole so that the base of the trunk, the collar, is level with the surrounding soil.
3. Fill the hole: Fill the hole with the original soil, lightly tamping to eliminate air pockets. Be careful not to bury the collar.
4. Watering: Water the tree thoroughly after planting to establish good contact between the roots and the soil. This will also help reduce transplant shock.
5. Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the tree to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and protect the roots.
6. Post-planting care: Water the tree regularly during the first growing seasons, especially during dry spells. A regular supply of water is crucial for the development of a healthy root system.

Maintenance of Melia

The Melia azedarach or chinaberry tree is a relatively easy-to-maintain tree.

When it comes to watering, it requires special attention when young to ensure it establishes well. Once established, the chinaberry tree tolerates drought well, but regular watering during periods of intense heat or prolonged drought helps maintain its vigour.

Regarding pruning, the chinaberry tree can be pruned to control its shape and size or to remove damaged or misplaced branches. Pruning is best done in late winter or early spring, before the onset of new growth. However, excessive pruning is unnecessary, as the tree has a naturally beautiful shape.

Mulching around the base of the tree helps retain soil moisture, reduce weed competition, and provide additional nutrients as it decomposes.

Melia azedarach (© Luc Coekaerts)

Parasitic and diseases

The Melia, although generally robust and resistant to many parasitic pests and diseases, is not entirely immune to certain issues. Among the most common are attacks by insects such as aphids, which can cluster on young shoots and leaves, sucking the sap and weakening the tree. These aphid infestations often leave behind a sticky residue, honeydew, which can encourage the development of sooty mould, a blackish fungus that forms on the leaves.

Additionally, the Neem tree can sometimes be affected by fungal diseases, particularly when conditions are humid or if air circulation around the tree is poor. These diseases often manifest as spots or discolouration on the leaves. However, there’s no need to worry—these issues are relatively rare and seldom require intervention.

Autumn fruiting (© Mauro Halpern)

Multiplication of Melia

Sowing seeds is the most natural and common method. Seeds, once extracted from their fruits, should be planted shortly after the harvest for better germination. The germination process can be facilitated by soaking the seeds in water overnight before sowing. Planting is typically done in spring in a well-drained substrate and under moderate temperature conditions.

In addition to sowing, the Neem tree can also be propagated by cuttings, although this method is less common. Propagation by cuttings involves taking young shoots or stems from the current year, preferably in early summer, and planting them in a mixture of compost and sand to encourage rooting. Rooting is promoted by a warm and humid environment, and the cuttings should be carefully monitored to ensure their success.

How to pair a Melia azedarach?

Consider creating a harmonious understory beneath the canopy of the Margousier, where hostas, with their lush and varied leaves, can thrive in the dappled shade. Ferns, such as the ostrich fern or the male fern, offer delicate green foliage that contrasts beautifully with the more robust structure of the Margousier.

To complement the Margousier’s spring flowering, consider bushes like azaleas or rhododendrons, which bring a burst of colour at the same time. Their vibrant flowers and evergreen leaves add depth and texture beneath the Margousier.

Near the base of the tree, ground covers such as Lesser periwinkle or common ivy can spread, creating a lush green carpet that balances the height of the Margousier. These plants are hardy and low-maintenance, pairing well with the easy-going nature of the Margousier.

For continuous seasonal interest, incorporate perennials that bloom in summer or autumn, such as daylilies or asters, to maintain the visual appeal of the garden even after the Margousier’s flowering period has ended.

Melia azedarach, Ostrich Fern, Rhododendron ‘Blue Tit’ flowering at the same time, and Aster cordifolius ‘Little Carlow’ which will bloom in late summer.

Anecdotes

• Bead Tree: In Turkey and other regions, the Neem Tree is nicknamed the “Bead Tree” because its hard, smooth seeds have traditionally been used to make rosaries.
• Music and Medicine: In some cultures, the wood of the Neem Tree is used to make musical instruments, while in others, it is valued for its medicinal properties. Its leaves, fruits, and bark have been used in traditional medicine (in China and Australia) to treat various ailments.
• Symbol of Resilience: The Neem Tree is often planted in urban areas for its ability to withstand pollution. Its endurance in harsh conditions makes it a symbol of resilience and a popular choice for urban landscaping.
• Natural Insecticide: The fruits and leaves of the Neem Tree are known for their natural insecticidal properties. They have been used in many cultures to protect crops and homes from harmful insects, highlighting the importance of this tree in traditional agricultural practices.