Contents
Description
Swietenia Humilis, also known as the Mexican mahogany or Pacific Coast mahogany, is a tree species native to Central America and Mexico. It belongs to the family Meliaceae, and its scientific name means humble Mahogany. It is a small to medium-sized tree that usually grows up to 30 meters tall and 60 cm in diameter.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Meliaceae |
| Genus | Swietenia |
Appearance
Swietenia humilis has a straight, cylindrical trunk that is typically covered in a grayish-brown bark with vertical ridges. Its leaves are pinnate, consisting of 4-8 pairs of leaflets, and it produces small, fragrant flowers that are yellowish-white in color. The tree’s fruit is a woody capsule that contains numerous winged seeds.
Care Guide
Water: Swietenia humilis requires regular watering during its growing season, but should be allowed to dry out slightly between waterings. Fertilization: Fertilize the tree with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.Soil: Swietenia humilis prefers well-drained, fertile soils. Sunlight: The tree thrives in full sun but can tolerate some shade.Hardiness Zones: Swietenia humilis grows well in USDA hardiness zones 10a-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Swietenia humilis is susceptible to pests such as spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs. The most common diseases affecting this plant include root rot, stem cankers, and leaf spot.
Habitat
Swietenia humilis is native to Central America and Mexico, and is commonly found in tropical forests and wetlands. It can also be grown in urban areas, as it is relatively tolerant of pollution and other environmental stresses.
Questions and Answers
Q: Can Swietenia humilis be grown indoors?
A: While Swietenia humilis can be grown indoors, it is best suited to outdoor cultivation.Q: What is the best time to prune Swietenia humilis?
A: Prune the tree in late winter or early spring, prior to the onset of new growth.Q: How often should Swietenia humilis be fertilized?
A: Fertilize the tree once every three months during the growing season.Q: How fast does Swietenia humilis grow?
A: Swietenia humilis is a relatively slow-growing tree and typically grows 1-2 feet per year.
Related Plants
- Swietenia macrophylla
- Khaya senegalensis
- Cedrela odorata
- Entandrophragma cylindricum
References
- Rentería-Angulo, C., et al. (2014). Swietenia humilis: Botany, Silviculture, Properties and Utilization. Forests, 5(9), 2147-2168.
- Little, E. L., et al. (1978). Common trees of Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. Agriculture Handbook No. 449. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Washington, D.C. 548 pp.
- Swietenia humilis. (n.d.). Retrieved January 15, 2022, from https://www.worldagroforestry.org/treedb2/speciesprofile.php?Spid=1774
