A native of India , the Neem tree is related to mahogany . A unfearing and long - hold out evergreen , Neem trees are , according to the non - profit system Winrock International " a various multipurpose tree for urban regreening , agroforestry , fuelwood product and for a salmagundi of other products , admit biopesticides . " Whether used as a decorative landscape accent or houseplant or grown for their fossil oil and barque , Neem Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree are well-heeled to grow and maintain .
Growth Habit
Neem tree are fast - growing , medium - sized trees , usually attaining a height of 50 to 65 foot . Its tree trunk is short and straight with profoundly fissure barque . The pinnate leaves are purple - bolshie when young , developing to a intermediate dark-green coloring when mature . The Neem Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree produces diminished , fragrant white-hot flowers and olive - like fruits .
Requirements
The Neem Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree is consider a tropic or semi - tropic tree diagram , suited for twelvemonth - circular outside outgrowth in USDA zona 9 and 10 . Neem trees choose at least 30 inch of rainfall per year , but once established , they can defy period of protract drought , during which they may become altogether leafless . Neem tree diagram prefer full sunshine and a well - drained , sandy soil but will develop in less worthy soils .
Active Components
The Neem Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree protect itself from insect attack by give rise chemicals know as limonoids . consort to the National Academies Press , these " bioactive compound are found throughout the tree , those in the seed marrow are the most hard and accessible . " These limonoids deflect insect growth and are effective against many serious agricultural and disease - causing pests .
Other Uses
Aside from its insecticidal properties , Neem oil has shown fungicidal and antibacterial properties as well . grant to the Oregon State University Extension , " The Neem tree has been used medicinally in India for centuries … to inhibit hypersensitised reaction and to inhibit plaque - forming bacterium . It has been used for pelt infections and wounds as well as malaria and enteral parasites in land where it is native . "
The Natalie Wood of the Neem Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree is hard and durable . This , blend with its flying growth , cause Neem wood a viable timbre harvest . Neem tree plantations are being developed to tap this versatile and valuable tree .
Pests and Problems
Neem tree are vulnerable to shell louse and youthful trees are dependent to swig harm if they are overwatered . There are no known soil kingdom Fungi or pathogens that plan of attack Neem tree diagram . In fact , under ideal conditions , hardy Neem trees can inhabit up to 200 years .
