Neem tree, Indian Lilac, Margosa
Azadirachta indica · Meliaceae (Mahogany family)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Compound (pinnately compound)
Shape
Lanceolate to falcate (sickle-shaped) leaflets with an asymmetric base
Margin
Serrate (coarsely toothed)
Arrangement
Alternate on the stem, pinnately arranged leaflets
Venation
Pinnate venation with a prominent central midrib and looping lateral veins
Key Features
Asymmetric, sickle-shaped (falcate) leaflets with coarsely serrate margins, alternate pinnately compound leaf arrangement, characteristic garlicky or sulfurous scent when crushed, and rough furrowed bark on mature trees
Description
The neem tree is a fast-growing, evergreen or semi-evergreen tree that can reach heights of 15 to 20 meters, featuring a sturdy trunk with rough, greyish-brown bark and a dense, rounded crown. Its leaves are pinnately compound, made up of numerous asymmetric, sickle-shaped leaflets with sharply toothed margins. The tree produces small, fragrant white flowers arranged in axillary panicles, followed by smooth, olive-like drupes that ripen from green to yellow. Known for its incredible resilience and dense foliage, it provides heavy shade and thrives in harsh, dry environments where other trees struggle.
Habitat
Thrives in tropical and semi-tropical regions, highly drought-tolerant, prefers well-drained sandy or loamy soils and full sun exposure
Native Range
Native to the Indian subcontinent (India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal) and parts of Southeast Asia; widely naturalized in tropical and subtropical regions globally, including Africa, the Caribbean, and parts of Australia