Melia azedarach (Bead Tree)
Melia azedarach (Bead Tree)
Product Name: Melia azedarach (Bead Tree)
Description:
The Melia azedarach, commonly known as the Bead Tree, is an attractive, fast-growing deciduous tree known for its beautiful lavender flowers, fragrant foliage, and ornamental fruits. Native to South Asia and Australia, the Bead Tree is widely grown across India for its shade, aesthetic appeal, and environmental benefits. With its charming appearance and ability to thrive in urban and rural landscapes alike, it is a versatile choice for gardeners and landscapers.
Features:
- Fragrant, Lavender Flowers: In spring, the Bead Tree bursts into bloom with clusters of small, star-shaped lavender flowers that emit a pleasant fragrance, attracting bees and butterflies.
- Ornamental Fruits: After flowering, the tree produces round, yellow berries that resemble beads, giving the tree its common name. These berries persist on the tree long after the leaves have fallen, adding year-round visual interest.
- Feathery Foliage: The tree's delicate, pinnate leaves create a light, airy canopy that provides dappled shade, making it a perfect addition to gardens, streetscapes, and parks.
- Drought-Tolerant & Hardy: The Bead Tree is highly adaptable to a range of soil types and thrives in hot, dry climates, making it a low-maintenance and drought-tolerant choice for India’s varying weather conditions.
- Shade & Ornamental Use: With its broad canopy and fast growth, Melia azedarach is ideal for providing shade in gardens, public spaces, or along avenues. It also works well as a windbreak in agricultural or rural settings.
Planting & Care:
- Sunlight: Prefers full sun to partial shade. For optimal flowering and growth, plant in a location where the tree can receive ample sunlight throughout the day.
- Soil: Adaptable to a wide variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. It prefers well-drained soil but can tolerate poor or dry conditions.
- Watering: Water regularly during the first few years to establish the tree. Once established, it requires minimal watering and is drought-tolerant.
- Pruning: Prune as needed to remove dead or damaged branches and maintain its shape. Pruning after the flowering season encourages new growth and a healthier structure.
- Fertilization: A balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring will promote healthy growth and abundant flowers.
Ideal For:
- Large gardens and urban landscapes
- Avenue and roadside planting
- Parks and public spaces
- Shade and windbreaks
Additional Information:
- Mature Height: 30-50 feet
- Mature Spread: 20-35 feet
- Growth Rate: Fast
- Foliage Type: Deciduous
- Bloom Time: Spring
- Origin: Native to South Asia and Australia
The Bead Tree is an excellent choice for those looking to create a shaded, fragrant space with year-round ornamental appeal. Whether used for landscaping, shading large areas, or enhancing biodiversity, the Melia azedarach offers a beautiful and practical solution for gardens and urban environments in India