Moha-Nim (Melia azadirachta)

Moha-Nim (Melia azadirachta)

Plant Guide

Local Indian Name: Moha-Nim)

Scientific Name: Melia azadirachta L.

Family: Meliaceae (Mahogany Family)

Category: Deciduous Tree

Subcategory: Ornamental and Medicinal Plant

Native Region:

• Origin: Native to South Asia, particularly the Indian subcontinent.

• Distribution: Widely found in India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and parts of Southeast Asia.

Introduction:

Melia azadirachta, commonly known as Moha-Nim, is a deciduous tree renowned for its medicinal properties and ornamental value. It is often confused with the Neem tree (Azadirachta indica) due to similarities in appearance and traditional uses. However, Moha-Nim is distinct in its botanical characteristics and applications.

Importance & Benefits:

• Medicinal Uses: Traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine for its antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. Extracts from various parts of the tree are utilized to treat ailments such as skin infections, digestive disorders, and respiratory issues.

• Ornamental Value: With its fragrant white flowers and lush foliage, Moha-Nim is often planted for aesthetic purposes in gardens and along avenues.

• Environmental Benefits: Acts as a natural air purifier, absorbing pollutants and releasing oxygen, thereby improving air quality.

Description and Cultivation:

• Height: Typically grows up to 20 meters in height.

• Trunk & Bark: Features a straight trunk with dark gray, rough, and fissured bark.

• Leaves: The pinnate leaves are arranged alternately, comprising numerous sickle-shaped leaflets that give a feathery appearance.

• Flowers: Produces small, fragrant white flowers arranged in large clusters, blooming primarily in the spring season.

• Fruits: Bears smooth, green drupes that turn yellow upon ripening, each containing a hard seed.

Varieties and Cultivars:

• Standard Moha-Nim: The primary species cultivated for its medicinal and ornamental properties.

Location and Light:

• Climate: Thrives in tropical and subtropical climates with distinct dry and wet seasons.

• Sunlight: Prefers full sunlight but can tolerate partial shade.

Soil Preparation:

• Type: Grows well in well-drained sandy loam soils but is adaptable to various soil types, including clay and lateritic soils.

• pH Range: Tolerates a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5.

• Soil Enrichment: Incorporate organic compost or well-decomposed manure to enhance soil fertility and structure.

Planting:

• Best Planting Season: Monsoon season (June to August) is ideal for planting to ensure adequate moisture for establishment.

• Spacing: Maintain a spacing of 6 to 8 meters between trees to allow for proper canopy development and air circulation.

• Pit Size: Dig pits measuring 60 cm x 60 cm x 60 cm and fill with a mixture of topsoil and organic matter before planting.

Watering:

• Young Plants: Require regular watering during the first 1-2 years to establish a strong root system.

• Mature Trees: Once established, Moha-Nim is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering, relying primarily on rainfall.

Pruning:

• Purpose: Pruning helps in maintaining tree shape, removing dead or diseased branches, and promoting healthy growth.

• Timing: Conduct pruning during the dormant season or immediately after the flowering period.

• Method: Use clean, sharp tools to make precise cuts, ensuring not to damage the main trunk or healthy branches.

Pest and Disease Management:

• Common Pests: While relatively resistant, occasional infestations by scale insects or leaf-eating caterpillars may occur.

• Common Diseases: May be susceptible to leaf spot diseases or root rot in poorly drained soils.

• Management Practices:

  • Cultural Controls: Ensure proper spacing and air circulation to reduce humidity around the foliage.

  • Organic Methods: Application of neem oil or bio-pesticides can help manage minor pest issues.

  • Chemical Controls: In severe cases, use appropriate fungicides or insecticides as per agricultural guidelines.

Environmental Conditions:

• Temperature Range: Optimal growth occurs between 20°C to 35°C.

• Rainfall: Prefers regions with annual rainfall between 800 to 1500 mm but can tolerate lower rainfall due to its drought-resistant nature.

• Humidity: Adaptable to both humid and semi-arid conditions.

Propagation:

• Seeds: The most common method; seeds should be sown fresh for higher