African Mahogany
Khaya senegalensis
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Description
Khaya senegalensis, known as African Mahogany, is a majestic tree native to the savannas of West Africa, reaching heights of up to 30 meters with a broad, dense crown. It plays a crucial role in agroecology and regenerative agriculture as a canopy layer tree, providing essential shade and microclimate regulation. Its leaf litter enriches the soil, enhancing fertility and supporting soil microbial life. Historically, it has been used by indigenous communities for its durable timber and medicinal properties. In agroforestry systems, it serves as a windbreak and supports biodiversity by offering habitat for various wildlife species. It is often paired with nitrogen-fixing plants like Acacia species to improve soil health and productivity.
Growing Details
Khaya senegalensis thrives in well-drained, sandy to loamy soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Prior to planting, enrich the soil with organic matter such as compost. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants like Acacia and other leguminous trees can enhance soil fertility. Avoid overwatering young plants, as they are susceptible to root rot. Harvest seeds when the pods are dry and brown, and store them in a cool, dry place to maintain viability
Tags
Carbon Farming
Attracts Wildlife
Fire Wood
Building Wood
Windbreak
Erosion Preventing
Visual Appeal
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Khaya senegalensis</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Native to the savannas of West Africa
applicable geo region: West Africa
language used: en
Flowering:
middle
of Jun for 30 days
Harvest:
middle
of September for 90 days
Seed Start:
?
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(1/5)
edible uses: The seeds of Khaya senegalensis can be consumed after thorough processing to remove any toxic compounds. They are not a common food source but can be used in times of scarcity.
Medicinal Rating:
(4/5)
medicinal uses: Khaya senegalensis is highly valued in traditional medicine. The bark is used for its anti-inflammatory and antipyretic properties, treating fevers, coughs, and gastrointestinal issues. The leaves and seeds are also utilized in herbal remedies, often prepared as decoctions or infusions. Caution is advised due to potential toxicity if consumed in large quantities.
health concerns: The seeds and bark contain compounds that may be toxic if consumed in large quantities. Proper processing is essential to ensure safety.
other uses: The wood of Khaya senegalensis is prized for its use in construction, furniture, and boat building due to its durability and resistance to pests. The tree also provides valuable shade and acts as a windbreak in agroforestry systems.
Scientific Literature
Loading scientific articles about <strong>Khaya senegalensis</strong>...
Botanical data
specie: Khaya senegalensis
common names: African Mahogany; Khaya; Senegal Mahogany
family: Meliaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Khaya
Growing Conditions
area needed: 10.0 m
spacing: 5.0 m
growing difficulty: Medium
Deciduous / Evergreen:
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 25ยฐC / 20ยฐC / 30ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 28ยฐC / 18ยฐC / 35ยฐC
water demands: Medium
humidity:
light demands: High
root type: Deep
frost tender: High
hardness:
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(10/10)
first harvest: 10 years
life span: 100 years
succession: Late
growth rate: Medium
max height: 30.0 m
max width: 20.0 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Hermaphrodite
growth details: Khaya senegalensis thrives in well-drained, sandy to loamy soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Prior to planting, enrich the soil with organic matter such as compost. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants like Acacia and other leguminous trees can enhance soil fertility. Avoid overwatering young plants, as they are susceptible to root rot. Harvest seeds when the pods are dry and brown, and store them in a cool, dry place to maintain viability
Potential Disturbances: Common pests include borers and termites. Natural pest management strategies include encouraging beneficial insects like parasitic wasps and using neem oil as an organic spray. Planting marigolds nearby can help repel nematodes, while trap cropping with plants like castor bean can divert pests away from the main crop.
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