Melia azedarach

Common Name:
White Cedar, Persian Lilac, Cape Lilac, Chinaberry

Description:
Melia azedarach, commonly known as White Cedar or Chinaberry, is a fast-growing, deciduous tree prized for its fragrant lilac-purple flowers and attractive fern-like foliage. In spring to early summer, clusters of star-shaped, pale purple flowers with a sweet scent cover the tree, followed by small, round, yellow berries that persist into winter, attracting birds. The finely divided green leaves provide dappled shade in summer before turning golden yellow in autumn. This hardy tree thrives in well-drained soils and is highly tolerant of drought, pollution, and urban conditions, making it ideal for street planting, parks, and large gardens.

Form:

• Tree - Medium

Mature Size:

• Height: 6–12 metres
• Width: 5–8 metres

Aspect:

• Full Sun
• Part Shade

Flowering:

• Flowers in Spring
• Flowers in Early Summer

Flower Colour:

• Lilac-Purple

Key Attributes:

• Drought Tolerant Once Established
• Bird Attracting (due to fruit)
• Shade Providing
• Low Maintenance
• Fast Growing

Toxicity:

• Berries are toxic to humans and pets if ingested in large quantities

Companion Plants:

• Callistemon (Bottlebrush)
• Acacia species (Wattle)
• Eucalyptus species
• Jacaranda mimosifolia
• Lagerstroemia (Crepe Myrtle)