Medium-size to large tree with quite loose, round to flat-topped spherical crown of 6 - 10m. The dark brown to reddish brown bark is grooved when mature. The year-old twigs are relatively thick and green to reddish.
The large bipinnate leaf consists of numerous leaf segments that grow between 25 to 60cm long and half as wide. Younger trees may show leaves up to 80cm long. In autumn the leaves turn golden yellow.
In spring the light violet flowers open in large loose panicles. They are followed by small, round light yellow berries. This fruits are what gave the tree the English name of Bead Tree. These fruits are poisonous to humans and mammals, but birds are able to eat them.
Melia thrives on many soils, provided it is sufficiently drained, tolerates drought and prefers a warm, sunny location. The tree is wind resistant, but it sensitive to cold, drying wind. Due to its lesser hardiness, Melia are only suitable for sheltered sites.