Common name: Chinaberry tree, Pride of India, Persian lilac. Tamil Name: Kattu vembu
Chinaberry is a deciduous tree of Indian origin, often deployed as an avenue tree in Tamilnadu. The tree grows to a height of about 10 meters and has a roundish crown. The bark of young trees are grey in appearance. The leafs are bi-pinnate and they can measure to over 30 cm in length. The leaflets are arranged in an opposite manner. The axis ends in leaflet. The leaflets are pale green, with a oblique base and an acuminate tip; the leaflets are ovate. The leaf margin is serrate. The inflorescence is in the form of an axially panicle. The flowers are lilac with a pleasant fragrance. The flowers are mostly bisexual , actinomorphic with five linear petals. The fruit is in the form of a drupe which contain stony seeds. It is fast growing tree with a life span of around 20 years. Suited for medium sized gardens. Often confused with Azadirachta indica (Neem tree), however Neem tree has a single pinnate leaf pattern and also flowers white. The fast growing Melia dubia tree differs from Chinaberry tree the former has a greenish inflorescence.
