Seeds of the Chinaberry tree

Common name: Zanzalakh Scientific name: Melia azedarach Other names: Azdardakh - Indian Lilac - Tamer Al-Akhar Zanzalakh is a deciduous tree that reaches a height of 6 to 17 meters, with branches spreading up to 12 meters. The word Azdardakh is a non-Arabic term composed of two parts: Azad, meaning "beautiful," and Dardakh, meaning "tree," so it is the beautiful tree. The tree has a wide, open crown, often with multiple branches. The leaves are lush green, compound pinnate, arranged alternately, with ovate, serrated leaflets. Flowers of the Zanzalakh tree: The flowers are purple, violet, or yellow leaning towards white, appearing in spring in an open cluster inflorescence up to 25 cm long. Each flower measures 5.1 cm. The tree begins to flower at the age of three or four years. Fruits and seeds of the Zanzalakh tree: Its fruits are small, spherical, with a seed inside, arranged in a cluster of spaced-out berries resembling chickpeas when ripe. Season for germinating the Zanzalakh tree: Planting is done in February and March, and September to November. It can also be cultivated year-round in agricultural greenhouses, enclosed or plastic places where temperature can be controlled, and where sunlight or sufficient lighting is available for the plant. Suitable climate and soil for the Zanzalakh tree: It tolerates drought and frost, grows in various soil types, and can withstand moderate salinity. Small trees may not tolerate frost. It prefers regular watering. Method of cultivating the Zanzalakh tree: It propagates through seeds and cuttings. Soaking seeds in water is not necessary but can accelerate growth, as the Zanzalakh is a fast-growing tree. Its benefits and uses: It is used for decoration and shade, and its wood is used in woodworking industries. It has medicinal uses as well. Additionally, it is important for repelling mosquitoes and insects, and a new insecticide has been developed from the seeds of the Zanzalakh tree. Original habitat of the Zanzalakh tree: Mountainous regions of China and South Asia.