Syringa Berrytree
Melia azedarach
Chinaberry Tree, Bead-Tree, Cape Lilac, Persian Lilac, Indian Lilac , Maksering, Bessieboom, Kaapse Sering (Afr.), Seringboom (Afr.)
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A large spreading tree growing up to 23m high with reddish-brown, smooth bark. Often grown in South Africa as street trees or in large gardens for shade. The leaves, bark, flowers and ripe fruit (berries) are poisonous. The tree is a good source of timber and the dried berries were used as beads.
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Planning
Difficulty
Easy
Flowering time
Summer, Spring
Fruiting time
Autumn, Winter
Harvesting
Generally not harvested.
Propagation
Seed
Seeds germinate easily, sow seed as temperatures warm up in spring in situ or into pots.
Special features
Drought resistant
The tree can withstand long dry spells.
Attracts useful insects
Attracts bees
Attracts birds
Many birds species feed on the berries and spread them.
Special features
Origin
Australasia
Natural climate
Temperate, Savanna
Environment
Light
Full Sun
Soil moisture
Moist
Soil type
Clay, Loam
Soil PH preference
Neutral
Frost hardiness
Hardy
Uses
Timber
The main utility of chinaberry is its timber. It has a timber of high quality, but as opposed to many almost-extinct species of mahogany, it is under-utilised. Seasoning is relatively simple, in that planks dry without cracking or warping and are resistant to fungal infection.
Landscaping
Often used as street trees.
Personality
Family
Meliaceae
Flower colour
Purple
Scent
Strong
Problems
Generally problem free.
Companion plants
Under-plant with plants that have strong root systems and love shade.
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Knowledge and advice
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