Bead Tree
Melia azederachfam. Meliaceae
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Pl. 0F47 — Melia azederach
Melia azederachMelia azederachMelia azederachMelia azederachMelia azederachMelia azederachMelia azederachMelia azederachMelia azederachMelia azederachMelia azederachMelia azederachMelia azederachMelia azederach
IOverview
Overview
The Bead Tree (Melia azederach) is a deciduous tree native to regions such as Assam, Bangladesh, Cambodia, and various areas in China. Known for its ornamental value and edible parts, this plant thrives in full sun with adaptable soil conditions ranging from light sandy to heavy clay. It can grow up to 9 meters tall and is hardy in zones 7-12. The tree's distinctive feature includes its small, bead-like fruit and fragrant flowers, making it a notable addition to gardens. Its leaves and fruits are edible, adding versatility to landscapes where it can be both ornamental and useful.
Quick answers
What is Bead Tree?
The Bead Tree (Melia azederach) is a deciduous tree native to regions such as Assam, Bangladesh, Cambodia, and various areas in China. Known for its ornamental value and edible parts, this plant thrives in full sun with adaptable soil conditions ranging from light sandy to heavy clay.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Bead Tree thrives in full sun and prefers well-drained soils that can range from light (sandy) to heavy (clay), with a pH between 4 and 8. It is hardy in temperate regions from zones 7-12. The plant requires moderate watering, being adaptable to both dry and moist conditions. For propagation, use seeds or cuttings. Bead Tree's edible parts include fruit and leaves, making it a versatile addition for those interested in incorporating it into their gardens or landscapes.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
7-12
Habit
Shrub, Tree
Mature size
9.0 m tall
Soil pH
4–8
For first-time growers
How to grow Bead Tree for the first time
7steps
Start with a simple Bead Tree to gain experience in gardening basics.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or young plants, a pot if starting indoors, and garden tools like a trowel.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Bead Tree seeds or transplant young plants in spring when the soil is warm.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil drains well; use a mix of light, medium, and heavy soils. For containers, choose one at least 30 cm wide.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds in the ground or start them indoors 6-8 weeks before planting outside. Transplant young plants carefully to avoid damaging roots.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Place in a sunny spot and protect from strong winds.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun exposure and regular watering during dry periods. Fertilize once or twice a year with organic compost.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune the tree in late winter to maintain shape and remove dead branches. Harvest leaves and fruits as needed for culinary use.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FruitLeaves
Edible uses: Oil, Drink, Gum
Other uses:CraftingBiomassContainersFire starterLumberGumPest controlLightingoilVarnishCoppiceFragrance
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
26 native · 4 introduced
Distribution
26 native · 4 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 26 native· 4 introduced
Asia12 regions
native (11)BangladeshCambodiaChinaIndiaLaosNepalPhilippinesSri LankaTaiwanThailandVietnam
introduced (1)Afghanistan
Africa2 regions
introduced (2)AlgeriaAngola
Broader regions
native:New Guinea, East Himalaya, Hainan, Jawa, Lesser Sunda Is., New South Wales, Northern Territory, Queensland, Solomon Is., Sumatera, West Himalaya, Western Australia
introduced:Alabama
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
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Companion planting
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Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 0f472421-c4a5-41b5-9c1e-eb7a6b477983
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