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Description
Khaya Senegalensis, also known as African mahogany or Senegal mahogany, is a large deciduous tree that can reach a height of up to 60 meters. It is native to tropical Africa, including Senegal, Gambia, Guinea, and Nigeria. The tree has a straight trunk with a grayish-brown bark that can be smooth or rough. The leaves are pinnate, with 4-6 pairs of leaflets and a terminal leaflet. The flowers are small, white to pale yellow, and arranged in large panicles. The fruit is a capsule that contains numerous winged seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Meliaceae |
| Genus | Khaya |
Appearance
The Khaya Senegalensis tree has a dense, rounded crown with dark green foliage that turns yellow before shedding in the dry season. The leaves are oblong to elliptical in shape, with a glossy upper surface and a pale green lower surface. The tree produces small, white to pale yellow flowers that are followed by woody, pear-shaped fruits that split open to reveal many winged seeds. The wood of Khaya Senegalensis is reddish-brown in color and has a straight grain, making it a popular choice for furniture, flooring, and musical instruments.
Care Guide
Khaya Senegalensis is a hardy tree that can tolerate a variety of growing conditions. It prefers a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter and can grow in full sun or partial shade. The tree should be watered regularly, especially during the dry season, and fertilized with a balanced fertilizer in the spring. Khaya Senegalensis is hardy to USDA zones 10-12 and can tolerate temperatures as low as 28°F (-2°C).
Common Pests & Diseases
Khaya Senegalensis is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by leaf spot, powdery mildew, and dieback if grown in humid conditions. The tree can also be attacked by termites and borers, which can cause damage to the bark and wood. Regular inspection and treatment with insecticides and fungicides can help prevent these problems.
Habitat
Khaya Senegalensis is native to the tropical regions of Africa, where it grows in a variety of habitats, including savannas, woodlands, and forests. The tree is often found along rivers and streams and can tolerate periodic flooding. Khaya Senegalensis is an important timber species in Africa, where it is used for furniture, construction, and firewood.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Khaya Senegalensis a fast-growing tree?
A: Khaya Senegalensis is a moderately fast-growing tree that can reach a height of up to 60 meters in its native habitat.
Q: Can Khaya Senegalensis be grown indoors?
A: Khaya Senegalensis is a large tree that is best grown outdoors in a spacious area. It is not suitable for growing indoors.
Q: What is the lifespan of Khaya Senegalensis?
A: Khaya Senegalensis can live for up to 100 years in its native habitat.
Q: Is Khaya Senegalensis an endangered species?
A: Khaya Senegalensis is not currently listed as an endangered species, but its populations are declining due to deforestation and overexploitation.
Related Plants
- Khaya grandifoliola
- Khaya anthotheca
- Khaya nyasica
- Khaya ivorensis
References
- “Khaya senegalensis (Desr.) A. Juss.” PROTA4U.
- “Khaya senegalensis.” Useful Tropical Plants.
- “African mahogany.” The Wood Database.
- “Khaya senegalensis.” PlantZAfrica.
