Neem Plant

[Due to high demand we have sold out of our November stock, preorder for December 15 delivery/pickup]

Plant Description:

Azadirachta indica, commonly known as Neem, is a fast-growing evergreen tree native to the Indian subcontinent. It is widely valued in traditional Ayurvedic medicine, organic agriculture, and natural pest control due to its diverse range of bioactive compounds.

The seeds of the Neem tree are processed to produce Neem oil, a natural insecticide that contains Azadirachtin, a compound known to disrupt insect growth and reproduction. Neem oil is commonly used in horticulture as a broad-spectrum pest deterrent.

The solid byproduct of oil extraction, known as Neem cake, is often applied to soil as a natural fertilizer and to suppress root-borne pests and diseases. In addition to its pesticidal properties, Neem cake also improves soil fertility and microbial activity.

Neem is well-suited to warm climates and thrives in full sun with well-draining soil. It is drought-tolerant once established and can be grown in containers or directly in the ground in frost-free areas in New Zealand.

Expected plant height = 30 cm

Cultivation requirements:

Climate: Neem requires warm conditions and is best grown in frost-free regions. In cooler parts of NZ, it is well-suited to pot cultivation, allowing for the plant to be moved indoors or into a greenhouse during winter.

Soil Requirements: Neem is highly adaptable to a range of soil types but prefers well-draining soils to prevent root rot. It can tolerate nutrient-poor/sandy soils, although growth may be slower. Avoid heavy clay or waterlogged areas, as these increase the risk of root diseases.

Watering & Drought Tolerance: Neem is drought-tolerant once established. However, young plants require consistent moisture during their first year. Once mature, Neem can typically survive on natural rainfall with little or no supplemental watering.

In New Zealand, Neem makes an excellent container plant, especially in colder climates. If growing in a pot, select a deep pot with free-draining soil to accommodate the deep root system of the Neem plant.