Contents
Description
Swietenia is a genus of trees in the Meliaceae family, native to tropical regions of the Americas. This genus includes three species: Swietenia mahagoni, Swietenia macrophylla, and Swietenia humilis. These trees are known for their high-quality timber, which is valued for its durability, strength, and attractive color. In addition, Swietenia trees have medicinal properties and are used in traditional medicine for various ailments. The bark, leaves, and seeds of these trees contain compounds that have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic effects.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Meliaceae |
| Genus | Swietenia |
Appearance
Swietenia trees are large and deciduous, with a straight trunk and a broad, spreading crown. The leaves are pinnate and composed of 4-8 pairs of leaflets. The flowers are small and white, and are borne in clusters at the ends of the branches. The fruit is a large, woody capsule that contains numerous winged seeds. The bark of these trees is smooth and grayish-brown, becoming rough and fissured with age. Swietenia trees can reach a height of 30-40 meters and a diameter of 1-1.5 meters.
Care Guide
Swietenia trees require moderate watering and prefer well-drained soil. They should be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer once a year. These trees need full sun exposure and can tolerate temperatures between 18 and 35 degrees Celsius. They grow best in hardiness zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Swietenia trees are susceptible to various pests and diseases, including powdery mildew, leaf spot, root rot, and scale insects. These problems can be prevented by ensuring good air circulation, avoiding overwatering, and using appropriate fungicides and insecticides when necessary.
Habitat
Swietenia trees are native to tropical regions of the Americas, including southern Florida, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. They grow in a variety of habitats, including lowland rainforests, coastal forests, and riverine forests.
Question and Answer
Q: What is Swietenia used for?
A: Swietenia is valued for its high-quality timber and medicinal properties. The wood is used for furniture, cabinetry, and musical instruments, while the bark, leaves, and seeds are used in traditional medicine.
Q: What is the habitat of Swietenia?
A: Swietenia trees are native to tropical regions of the Americas and grow in lowland rainforests, coastal forests, and riverine forests.
Q: How tall can Swietenia trees grow?
A: Swietenia trees can reach a height of 30-40 meters.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases of Swietenia?
A: Swietenia trees are susceptible to powdery mildew, leaf spot, root rot, and scale insects.
Related Plants
- Cedrela
- Melia
- Khaya
References
- Wikipedia contributors. (2021, August 22). Swietenia. In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved 03:51, August 25, 2021, from https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Swietenia&oldid=1040374435
- Swietenia. (n.d.). Encyclopedia Britannica. Retrieved August 25, 2021, from https://www.britannica.com/plant/Swietenia
- Swietenia. (n.d.). The Plant List. Retrieved August 25, 2021, from http://www.theplantlist.org/browse/A/Meliaceae/Swietenia/
