Azadirachta indica (Neem)

Cultivation

In frost-free areas, prefers moderately fertile, well-drained, sandy, neutral to acid soil in full sun or partial shade. Tolerates a range of soil conditions. Tolerates extreme heat and drought. Avoid waterlogged conditions. Will tolerate light frosts when mature. Under glass, grow in loam-based compost in full light. Water moderately in growth. Neem oil is used as an insecticide, a fungicide, for lamp fuel, and in soaps and cosmetics. Leaves and bark are used in teas, cosmetics, toothpastes, and in herbal medicines.

Suggested uses

Mediterranean, Drought Tolerant, Wallside and trellises, Greenhouse, Specimen tree, Bees (attract & feed bees), Desert garden/Xeriscaping

UK hardiness

H2

USDA zones

Zone 10, Zone 11, Zone 12

Sunset zone

WUCOLS

North-Central Coastal = Moderate/Medium
Central Valley = Unknown
South Coastal = Moderate/Medium
South Inland = Unknown
High and Intermediate Desert = Unknown
Low Desert = Unknown

Foliage

Semi-evergreen

Habit

Spreading, Rounded

Native to

Southern Asia

Drought tolerant

Yes

Flood tolerant

No

Toxicity

Though used in traditional, herbal medicine for centuries, long-term use may harm the kidneys or liver. Toxic to small children, even in small doses.