MELIA AZEDERACH Meaning and
Definition
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Melia azedarach, commonly known as Melia or chinaberry, is a deciduous tree belonging to the family Meliaceae. Native to southern and eastern Asia, it has now been naturalized in various regions around the world. Melia azedarach is primarily cultivated for its attractive ornamental features, including lush foliage, beautiful clusters of fragrant pale purple flowers, and small yellow fruits that resemble berries.
The tree typically grows up to 15 meters in height, with a spreading canopy and a smooth gray bark. Its leaves are pinnately compound, composed of leaflets that have a strong, rancid smell when crushed. The flowers, which appear in late spring or early summer, are arranged in large, showy panicles. They are followed by the formation of small, greenish-yellow fruits that ripen to a pulpy flesh, enclosing hard, spherical seeds.
While Melia azedarach is valued for its aesthetic appeal, it is important to note that all parts of the tree, including the fruits and seeds, contain a toxic substance called meliatoxins. These toxins can be harmful to humans and animals if ingested. However, the tree has been traditionally used in folk medicine for various purposes, including the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders, skin ailments, and as an insect repellent.
Due to its hardiness and adaptability to different soil types, Melia azedarach has become invasive in some regions, where it poses a threat to native ecosystems. Efforts are being made by environmental organizations and authorities to control its spread and prevent further negative impacts.
Common Misspellings for MELIA AZEDERACH
- nelia azederach
- kelia azederach
- jelia azederach
- mwlia azederach
- mslia azederach
- mdlia azederach
- mrlia azederach
- m4lia azederach
- m3lia azederach
- mekia azederach
- mepia azederach
- meoia azederach
- melua azederach
- melja azederach
- melka azederach
- meloa azederach
- mel9a azederach
- mel8a azederach
- meliz azederach
Etymology of MELIA AZEDERACH
The word "Melia Azederach" has its roots in the scientific naming system of plants known as binomial nomenclature. It consists of two parts: the genus name (Melia) and the species name (Azederach).
The genus name "Melia" is derived from the Greek word "melia", which means "ash tree". This is due to the genus' resemblance to the ash tree, particularly its compound leaves.
The species name "Azederach" is derived from the Persian word "azedarach", which means "noble tree" or "bitter fruit". It refers to the tree's bitter fruits, which are toxic to humans and some animals.
Therefore, the etymology of "Melia Azederach" combines the Greek word for ash tree and the Persian word for noble tree with bitter fruit, representing its characteristics.
