Melia azedarach, Linn. |
(Syn. M. Sempervirens, M. bukayan, M. japonica) |
Family: Meliaceae |
Common Name : Persian lilac |
Telugu Name : Thurakavepa |
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General :
It is not found in wild, generally grown as an avenue plant. Identified by fern-like tripinnate foliage and lilac and purple flowers. Recommended for plantations on wide range of soils specifically loamy laterite soils.
Flowering :
Flowering in April to June (occasional flowering in December). |
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Fruiting : |
Fruits appear after monsoon and are green, then ripen to yellow in cold season. |
Morphology of the Fruit/Seed : |
Drupe 1.5 cms in dia., globose, 5 to 6 celled, 5 seeded (or fewer by abortion); yellow when ripe but subsequently wrinkled. Seeds yellowish brown, very hard, each having a natural perforation through the center. |
Seed Collection and Storage : |
In November - December, the fruits are collected from the trees and depulping is not necessary. Fruits are dried in the sun for 3 to 4 days and stored in gunny bags. The seeds retain their viability for one year. |
Seed Biology : |
No.of fruits per kg. |
No. of seeds per Kg. |
Germination percentage |
Plant percent |
No. of seedlings per Kg. of seed |
Period of germination in days |
141 |
750 to 917 |
65 to 70 |
20 |
286 |
15 to 45 |
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Pretreatment: |
Seeds or dried fruits are soaked in cold water for several days. |
Nursery Technique : |
Seeds or dried fruits are sown about 5 to 8 cms a part in shaded beds in February to March and lightly covered with soil. The seedlings are pricked out in to polypots and planted out in August. |