China Berry Tree or The White Cedar
Melia azedarach is known as the ‘White Cedar’ and ‘Persian Lilac’. It is not often that a tree gets such a good recommendation from both councils and landscapers, it may not be the perfect street tree, however it is very close to it. Being fast growing, yet smaller in stature than many this is a very adaptable tree available for sale from wholesale growers in a range of sizes.
A small to medium sized tree reaching around 10m in height with a spreading crown that forms a good dense canopy overtime, it has a number of landscaping uses.
Suited for use as a shade tree, as a street tree and in commercial landscaping situations where a deciduous shade tree may be required.
Foliage is a deep glossy green and the lilac flowers that appear in spring give the tree one of its common names.
Flowers are followed by small orange to brown berries and the tree is best planted away from pathways.
Very tolerant of a range of soil conditions and regarded as drought tolerant one established.
Widely grown in Melbourne in parks and gardens.
Found growing along the Australian east coast from Cape York to southern NSW as well as in norther Western Australia this is a tree that will grow well in Victoria and South Australia as well.
Landscaping Uses
Very useful as a small shade tree, a dense canopy, ability to grow in a range of soils as long as they are well drained, and also good frosty resistance are all good points.
Fragrant flowers are an added attraction and these appear in autumn, followed by small fruits.
Pruning
Formative pruning is recommended to create a straight clean trunk. You can also selectively prune the canopy to open it up a little if desired.
Problems
As the plant matures it will produce a lot of seeds, so in the wrong location it can can become a weed problem. Birds do disperse the seeds widely.
Summary
- Height – To around 8m
- Spread – Crown or around 4m
- Foliage – Mid to deep green.
- Flowers – Lilac.
- Growth Rate – Fast.
Melia azedarach is available for sale from the following wholesale nurseries.
55 McDougal Rd Neerim South Victoria 3831 PH: (03) 56281507
Advanced ornamental trees and garden designs and concept plans. Direct to your property combined with specialist knowledge and outstanding service.
www.blericktreefarm.com.au
1750 Westernport Rd Heath Hill VIC 3981
Australias largest grower of semi advanced native and deciduous trees. .9 - 2.6mts high. Supplying councils, developers and landscapers. Includes Acacia implexa, acacia melanoxlylon.
www.dream-time.com.au
"Propagation and Production of Native and Exotic Trees
with Natural Root Systems from 2 to 2,000 lts."
www.njrivett.com.au