Chinaberry (Melia azedarach)
Quick Facts
- Type
- Botanical
- Source
- Fruit, leaves, and bark of Melia azedarach — related to neem but with higher mammalian toxicity
- OMRI Listed
- No
- Bee Safe
- Yes
- Pet Safe
- Caution
- Residual
- 7-10 days; similar to neem
- Best For
- Academic interest and traditional agriculture in regions where neem is unavailable. Chinaberry is sometimes called "poor man's neem."
What Is Chinaberry (Melia azedarach)?
Contains meliaceous limonoids (meliantriol, azadirone) similar to neem's azadirachtin. Acts as an antifeedant, insect growth regulator, and stomach poison. However, chinaberry contains additional tetranortriterpenoids that are toxic to mammals, birds, and dogs.
Source: Fruit, leaves, and bark of Melia azedarach — related to neem but with higher mammalian toxicity
What Pests Does Chinaberry (Melia azedarach) Kill?
Chinaberry (Melia azedarach) is effective against the following pests:
How to Apply Chinaberry (Melia azedarach)
Best for: Academic interest and traditional agriculture in regions where neem is unavailable. Chinaberry is sometimes called "poor man's neem."
Avoid for: Any property with children, pets, or livestock. Commercial agriculture in regulated markets.
Residual activity: 7-10 days; similar to neem
Safety Profile
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Bee Safety | 🟢 Safe for bees |
| Pet Safety | 🔴 Use caution around pets |
| Overall Rating | Warning — Organic but toxic or dangerous to non-targets |
Why Isn't Chinaberry (Melia azedarach) Working?
If Chinaberry (Melia azedarach) isn't delivering results, check these common failure modes:
TOXIC to dogs, cats, horses, pigs, and birds — fruit is the most toxic part
Berries are poisonous to children — 6-8 berries can be lethal
Invasive tree species in southern US and many tropical regions
Not approved for pesticide use in most Western countries