Barcelona's streets are currently filled with the sweet scent of Melia trees, which are in full bloom across the city. Residents and visitors can notice the intense floral fragrance, particularly in areas like Carrer de Pere IV and around the Sagrada Família.
Many Melia trees are planted in the Jardins de Xavier Benguerel, between Rambla del Poblenou and Sala Beckett, where their perfume is especially strong. Numerous specimens also line the streets and garden areas surrounding the Sagrada Família basilica.
The Melia tree, Melia azedarach, is native to Asia, specifically Persia, parts of China, and the lower Himalayas. It was introduced to the Iberian Peninsula by the Arabs and is considered a sacred tree in countries such as Iran, India, and Malaysia.
Melia's Adaptation to Barcelona
Melia trees grow well in temperate zones with hot summers and mild winters, requiring plenty of sunlight and adapting to various soil types. While they typically bloom earlier in places like New Delhi, India, May is generally the month for Melia blossoms in Barcelona, making it one of the most fragrant trees in the city.
The species has adapted well to Barcelona's climate. These trees can grow over 10 metres tall, featuring large, compound leaves. Their flowers cluster into showy bouquets.
Distinctive Features and Uses
The fruit of the Melia is a drupe, a small, round berry about one centimetre in diameter that changes from green to yellowish-brown. These fruits form large clusters that remain on the tree throughout winter, even after the leaves have fallen. The fruit contains a small natural hole, which historically led to its use in making rosaries.
While the fruit is poisonous to humans if consumed in large quantities, it is harmless to birds. In several parts of America, the Pacific, and Africa, Melia is classified as an invasive species. However, in Barcelona, it is primarily used as an ornamental tree, valued for its generous shade, and is commonly planted along promenades and avenues.
Melia trees can be found throughout Barcelona, with notable examples in Plaça de la Sagrada Família, Carrer de la Marina, Carrer de la Selva de Mar, Carrer de Biscaia, Carrer de Quito, Carrer de Mandri, Gran de Sant Andreu, Carrer d'Aiguablava, Parc de Diagonal Mar, and the Jardins de Xavier Benguerel.
