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Description
Swietenia Macrophylla, commonly known as mahogany tree or big-leaf mahogany, is a large and majestic tree that belongs to the Meliaceae family. It is native to the tropical regions of Central and South America, but it has also been introduced to other parts of the world due to its beautiful wood and medicinal properties.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Meliaceae |
| Genus | Swietenia |
Appearance
The mahogany tree can grow up to 40 meters tall and has a trunk that can reach up to 2 meters in diameter. Its bark is smooth and grayish-brown in color, while its leaves are large, dark green, and arranged in a spiral pattern. The tree produces small, fragrant flowers that are yellowish-white in color and are followed by large, woody fruit capsules that contain numerous winged seeds.
Care Guide
Swietenia Macrophylla is a relatively low-maintenance tree, but it does require some care to thrive. Here are some tips for taking care of your mahogany tree:
- Water: Mahogany trees prefer well-drained soil that is kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water your tree regularly, especially during hot and dry weather.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your tree once or twice a year with a balanced fertilizer that contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
- Soil: Mahogany trees prefer soil that is rich in organic matter and has a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. If your soil is too acidic, add lime to raise the pH.
- Sunlight: Mahogany trees prefer full sun but can also tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Mahogany trees are hardy in USDA zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Although mahogany trees are relatively resistant to pests and diseases, they can still be affected by some common problems:
- Scale insects: These insects can infest the leaves and branches of the tree, causing yellowing and premature leaf drop. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the infestation.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes brown spots on the leaves and can lead to defoliation. Remove infected leaves and spray with a fungicide to prevent further spread.
- Root rot: This fungal disease can occur in poorly draining soil and can cause the tree to wilt and die. Improve drainage and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Habitat
Swietenia Macrophylla is native to the tropical regions of Central and South America, where it grows in lowland rainforests and riverine forests. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate periodic flooding.
Question and Answer
Q: Is mahogany wood expensive?
A: Yes, mahogany wood is considered a luxury wood and is often used for high-end furniture and musical instruments.
Q: Can mahogany trees be grown in containers?
A: It is possible to grow mahogany trees in containers, but they will not reach their full potential size and may require more frequent watering and fertilization.
Q: Is mahogany wood sustainable?
A: Mahogany wood has been overharvested in the past, but sustainable harvesting practices are now in place to ensure the long-term viability of the species.
Q: What are the medicinal properties of mahogany?
A: Mahogany has been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including fever, diarrhea, and hypertension. It contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Related Plants
- African mahogany (Khaya anthotheca)
- Spanish cedar (Cedrela odorata)
- Sapele (Entandrophragma cylindricum)
- Black limba (Terminalia superba)
References
- “Swietenia macrophylla.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 28, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d568.
- “Swietenia macrophylla.” Flora of North America. Accessed September 28, 2021. https://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=1&taxon_id=220013631.
- “Big-leaf mahogany.” Rainforest Alliance. Accessed September 28, 2021. https://www.rainforest-alliance.org/species/big-leaf-mahogany.
