Tree Species (Scientific Name)
Melia azedarach
Food
Fuelwood
Lumber
Medicinal
Ornamental
Product
English Common Name
White Cedar
Indonesian Common Name
Mindi, Marambung (Sumatra)
Tree Family
Meliaceae
Average Leaf Size (cm)
15-80cm
Length
×
2-10cm
Width
Tree Height
Large (> 35m)
Elevational Range (m)
0–1200m
0 3000
Distribution
Native
Exotic
Native to Indonesia

Native to

Region
Asia, Oceania
Cambodia, Laos, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam
Indonesia
Java, Lesser Sunda Islands, New Guinea, Sumatra

Coffee Agroforestry Information

Coffee System
Robusta
Coffee Impact
Unknown
Prevalence
Unknown
Cultivation
Planted
Regeneration
Requires Propagation
Tree Management

Propagated usually by seed but also through stem cuttings, root suckers and air layering. Seed can be eased out and soaked in water for 1-2 days, depulped, and dried in the shade. Seedlings may be thinned to 15 cm x 15 cm when 2 months old and transplanted when 7-10 cm tall. Tree resprouts after cutting and regrows after pollarding making it suitable for pole production. During the first 2 years after planting intermittent weeding is necessary. When grown for timber stems are pruned to a height of ~6 m to obtain a branch-free bole

Tree Benefits and Uses

Farmer Uses
  • Food
  • Fuelwood
  • Lumber
  • Medicinal
  • Ornamental
  • Product

The tree produces resin, aqueous and alcoholic extracts of the leaves and seed reportedly control many insect, mite, and nematode pests (but contain toxic components so care is needed in their use), its various parts have antiparasitic and antimalarial properties and are used as laxatives, to induce vomiting, to stimulate menstrual discharge, and to treat skin diseases. It produces oil and sugar, and its wood, which can be sold in regional and national markets, is used to make agricultural implements, carts, tool handles, furniture, and is valued in construction due to its termite resistance.

Farm Services
  • Nitrogen Fixation
Biodiversity Benefits
Unknown