Also known as Malabar Neem
Melia dubia, also known as Ceylon cedar, is a fast-growing deciduous tree native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia, valued for its timber.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
75% intensity
Prefers at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 20-30°C; protect from frost.
Low
25% intensity
Fertilize annually in spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Melia dubia prefers consistently moist soil, especially when young. Water deeply once or twice a week during the growing season, reducing frequency in cooler months.
Allow the top 2-3 cm of soil to dry out between waterings to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
Prune Melia dubia to shape the tree, remove dead or diseased branches, and improve air circulation. The best time for major pruning is late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Light trimming can be done anytime to maintain desired form or remove crossing branches.
Melia dubia can be propagated from seeds, which require scarification and stratification for best germination. Cuttings are also possible, taken from semi-hardwood in summer.
Rooting hormone can improve success rates for cuttings. Sow seeds or plant cuttings in a well-draining medium.
Young Melia dubia plants may require repotting every 1-2 years to accommodate growth. Choose a pot one size larger than the current one with adequate drainage. Repot in spring before the active growing season begins.
Established trees in the ground do not require repotting.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Ceylon Cedar (Melia dubia)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Meliaceae |
| Genus | Melia |
| Species | Melia dubia |
Similar in genus Melia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
