Latin name - Azadirachta indica

Neem trees are towering shady specimens reputed for their medicinal, edible, and useful qualities. Neem is referenced in ancient Ayurvedic texts as “nimba” which translates to “giving good health.” They’re highly drought-tolerant and thrive in Florida’s sandy soils.

Neem trees are beautiful plants with delicate pointed leaves which can be eaten young/tender as a vegetable or fed to ruminants such as rabbits and goats. Leaves are bitter even when cooked, but are high in carotene, Vitamin C, and quercetin. Leaves can also be dried and placed in cupboards or inside grain canisters to deter pests. 

Neem is native to Indochina and specimens are commonly seen along roadways and in backyards in India and Pakistan. It is a relative of mahogany, but grows much more quickly, reaching its maximum height within 6-8 years of planting.

Traditional uses range from chewing Neem twigs for dental hygiene; neem extract for use in fertilizers; wood for timber and firewood; and dried leaves as pest deterrents.

One of the most well-known uses for neem oil is as pest control due to its concentration of phytochemicals, principally azadirachtin which can be found throughout the entire plant. Azadirachtin not only kills and repels insects, but also deters egg laying and suppresses egg hatching.

Neem is also valued as a windbreak, carbon dioxide sink, and bee attractor.

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Size - 15’ Wide x 80’ Tall but can be kept smaller 

Noteable Characteristics - Highly drought resistant, ideal for reversing desertification

Sunlight requirements - 6+ hours direct sunlight per day

Cold hardy temp - Leaf drop at 35 degrees F; Hard freeze will kill

Harvest Season - Seeds July-October; Leaves year-round