Bead Tree vs Mountain Cedar

Bead Tree (Melia azederach) and Mountain Cedar (Toona ciliata) — side-by-side cultivation, uses, and safety.

SIDE A

Melia azederach (Bead Tree) — botanical photograph

Side-by-side attributes

Attribute	Bead Tree	Mountain Cedar
Latin name	Melia azederach	Toona ciliata
Family	Meliaceae	Meliaceae
Edible	yes	yes
Medicinal	no	no
Life cycle	—	—
Mature height	9.0 m	30.0 m
Light	Full sun	Full sun, Partial sun/shade, Full shade
Water	Dry, Moist	Moist, Wet
Soil	Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)	Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness	7-12	9-12
pH range	4–8	—
Edible parts	Fruit, Leaves	Leaves
Propagation	—	—

III

Which to pick

Both have their place

Bead Tree and Mountain Cedar cover similar territory. Pick based on what you can actually grow (climate, soil) and what's locally available. See the cultivation rows above for the deciding factors.

Frequently asked

What is the main difference between Bead Tree and Mountain Cedar?

Bead Tree (Melia azederach) and Mountain Cedar (Toona ciliata) are both in the Meliaceae family. See the side-by-side table above for cultivation needs, edible parts, and medicinal uses.

Can Bead Tree and Mountain Cedar be combined?

Plant combinations should be evaluated case by case. Check the safety/contraindications section on each plant's profile (Bead Tree and Mountain Cedar) before mixing. Some combinations are synergistic, others can interact with medication.

Are these plants safe?

Every plant profile includes a Cautions section with contraindications, drug interactions, and population warnings. Consult a healthcare professional before using either for medicinal purposes.

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