Neem
Azadirachta indicafam. Meliaceae
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Pl. 8C0F — Azadirachta indica
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IOverview
Overview
Neem, Azadirachta indica, is a tree native to the tropical regions of Assam, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam. Known for its versatility, neem can thrive in full sun or partial shade, adapting to various soil types from medium to heavy clay. It prefers dry to moist conditions and grows up to 15 meters tall. Neem is valued not only for its ornamental appeal but also for its edible fruits. This tree belongs to the Mahogany family (Meliaceae) and has been widely used in traditional medicine due to its numerous beneficial properties, though specific health claims are beyond the scope of this description.
Quick answers
What is Neem?
Neem, Azadirachta indica, is a tree native to the tropical regions of Assam, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam. Known for its versatility, neem can thrive in full sun or partial shade, adapting to various soil types from medium to heavy clay.
IV·bMixology suggestions
1 draft
Mixology suggestions
1 draftEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Neem support blend
generaltea
AI returned a direct ingredient list; normalized into one draft blend for editorial review.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Neem thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist to dry conditions, making it adaptable to various soil types from medium to heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 10-12, so it requires warm temperatures. For optimal growth, plant neem trees in well-drained soil and water them regularly but avoid overwatering. Propagation can be done through seeds or cuttings. Harvest the fruits for edible use.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
10-12
Habit
Tree
Mature size
15.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Neem for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple neem tree to observe and care for, focusing on basic gardening skills.
- 1
What you'll need
A young neem sapling, a small pot or garden space, good quality soil.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when the weather is warming up and there's no risk of frost.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil. For containers, choose a pot at least 30 cm wide with drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant the sapling carefully, ensuring not to damage the roots.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly but avoid overwatering. Place in a sunny spot and keep an eye on any pests.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun or partial shade. Water when the soil feels dry to touch, especially during hot weather.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune lightly to shape the tree and remove dead branches as needed. Neem fruits are edible but not commonly harvested.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, neglecting sunlight, and using pesticides.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:fruits
Edible uses: Oil, Drink
Other uses:BiomassFire starterContainersFencingCover cropHairHedgerowPest controlLightingoilWind breakerSoap makingSoil conditionerErosion controlTanninTeethLumberCoppice
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
7 native · 23 introduced
Distribution
7 native · 23 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 7 native· 23 introduced
Asia7 regions
native (7)BangladeshCambodiaIndiaLaosMyanmarThailandVietnam
Americas5 regions
introduced (5)Dominican RepublicEl SalvadorHaitiJamaicaUnited States
Africa9 regions
introduced (9)Burkina FasoCameroonChadGambiaGhanaGuineaGuinea-BissauMauritaniaMauritius
Broader regions
introduced:Andaman Is., Aruba, Central African Repu, East Himalaya, Jawa, Laccadive Is., Leeward Is., Lesser Sunda Is., Malaya
VIIIGarden companions
1 pair
Garden companions
1 pairPlant near these
These plants help — by repelling pests, fixing nitrogen, attracting pollinators, or sharing space well.
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Meliaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Meliaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
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