Neem
Azadirachta indica
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Description
Neem is a fast-growing, evergreen tree native to the Indian subcontinent, reaching up to 20 meters in height with a wide-spreading crown. In agroecology and regenerative agriculture, neem serves as a multifunctional species. It is a valuable component of food forests, often used in the upper canopy layer. Neem enhances soil fertility through leaf litter, which decomposes to enrich the soil with organic matter. Its deep roots help in stabilizing soil and preventing erosion. Neem is renowned for its natural pest control properties due to azadirachtin, an effective compound against a wide range of pests. Historically, neem has been used in traditional Indian agriculture and medicine for centuries. It is often planted alongside nitrogen-fixing trees like pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan) to improve soil health and support biodiversity.
Growing Details
Neem thrives in well-drained, sandy loam soils with a pH of 6.2 to 7.0. It requires full sunlight for optimal growth and is highly drought-resistant, making it suitable for arid and semi-arid regions. Soil preparation should include the addition of organic matter to improve fertility. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Neem can be grown alongside plants like marigold (Tagetes spp.) to repel nematodes. Common mistakes include overwatering, which can lead to root ro
Edible Parts
Leaves
Flowers
Oil
Tags
Hedge
Carbon Farming
Attracts Wildlife
Fire Wood
Building Wood
Windbreak
Erosion Preventing
Bee Friendly
Visual Appeal
Easy Propagating
Oil
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Azadirachta indica</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Native to the Indian subcontinent and dry are
applicable geo region: Tropical and subtropical regions
language used: en
Flowering:
beginning
of March for 30 days
Harvest:
beginning
of Jun for 60 days
Seed Start:
beginning
of March
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(2/5)
edible uses: The young twigs and flowers of neem are used in small quantities in traditional dishes, particularly in Indian cuisine. The flowers can be fried or added to curries for a bitter flavor.
Medicinal Rating:
(5/5)
medicinal uses: Neem has a long history in traditional medicine, known for its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. Neem oil and extracts are used to treat skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis, boost immunity, and support oral health by using twigs as toothbrushes. However, neem should be used with caution, particularly in children and pregnant women, due to potential toxicity in large quantities.
health concerns: Neem should be used with caution as it can be toxic in large quantities, particularly to children and pregnant women.
other uses: Neem is used for making mulch, natural pesticides, and organic fertilizers. The wood is used for firewood and building materials.
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Azadirachta indica
common names: Neem; Nimtree; Indian Lilac
family: Meliaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Azadirachta
Growing Conditions
area needed: 10.0 m
spacing: 5.0 m
growing difficulty: Low
Deciduous / Evergreen:
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 25ยฐC / 20ยฐC / 30ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 30ยฐC / 10ยฐC / 40ยฐC
water demands: Medium
humidity:
light demands: High
root type: Deep
frost tender: High
hardness:
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(10/10)
first harvest: 3 years
life span: 200 years
succession: Pioneer
growth rate: Fast
max height: 20.0 m
max width: 15.0 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Hermaphrodite
growth details: Neem thrives in well-drained, sandy loam soils with a pH of 6.2 to 7.0. It requires full sunlight for optimal growth and is highly drought-resistant, making it suitable for arid and semi-arid regions. Soil preparation should include the addition of organic matter to improve fertility. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Neem can be grown alongside plants like marigold (Tagetes spp.) to repel nematodes. Common mistakes include overwatering, which can lead to root ro
Potential Disturbances: Neem is generally pest-resistant due to its natural insecticidal properties. However, young plants may be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. To manage pests naturally, encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings, which prey on aphids. Companion planting with basil (Ocimum basilicum) can help repel certain pests. Organic sprays made from neem oil can be used to treat infestations.
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