Swietenia macrophylla, commonly known as Mahogany, is a large tropical tree native to Central and South America. It plays a significant role in agroecology and regenerative agriculture as a canopy layer tree in food forests. Its deep root system aids in soil stabilization and nutrient cycling, while its dense foliage provides shade and habitat for various wildlife species. Mahogany is often integrated into agroforestry systems for its ability to enhance biodiversity and ecosystem resilience. Historically, indigenous communities have utilized Mahogany for its durable timber and medicinal properties. In a guild, Mahogany can be paired with nitrogen-fixing plants like Inga species to improve soil fertility.
Growing Details
Mahogany thrives in well-drained, fertile soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. It requires a tropical climate with consistent rainfall and full sunlight. Prior to planting, enrich the soil with organic matter such as compost. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion planting with nitrogen-fixing species like Inga can enhance soil fertility. Protect young seedlings from frost and strong winds. Regular pruning is essential to maintain tree shape and promote heal
Edible Parts
Tags
Keystone Specie 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>Swietenia macrophylla</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 Central and South America, particul
applicable geo region: Tropical regions
language used: en
Flowering:
beginning
of May for 30 days
Harvest:
beginning
of September for 60 days
Seed Start:
beginning
of March
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(0/5)
edible uses:
Medicinal Rating:
(2/5)
medicinal uses: Mahogany has been used in traditional medicine for its potential anti-inflammatory and astringent properties. The bark and leaves are used in decoctions to treat ailments such as diarrhea and fever. It is important to note that the seeds and bark contain compounds that can be toxic if ingested in large quantities, so caution is advised.
health concerns: The seeds and bark contain compounds that can be toxic if ingested in large quantities.
other uses: Mahogany wood is highly valued for its use in furniture, musical instruments, and boat building. It also provides shade and can be used as a windbreak in agroforestry systems.
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Swietenia macrophylla
common names: Big-leaf Mahogany; Honduras Mahogany; Brazili
family: Meliaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Swietenia
Growing Conditions
area needed: 20.0 m
spacing: 10.0 m
growing difficulty: High
Deciduous / Evergreen: Evergreen
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 25ยฐC / 20ยฐC / 30ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 25ยฐC / 15ยฐC / 35ยฐC
water demands: High
humidity:
light demands: High
root type: Deep
frost tender: High
hardness:โโโโโโโโโโ(10/10)
first harvest: 10 years
life span: 200 years
succession: Late
growth rate: Medium
max height: 60.0 m
max width: 30.0 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Monoecious
growth details: Mahogany thrives in well-drained, fertile soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. It requires a tropical climate with consistent rainfall and full sunlight. Prior to planting, enrich the soil with organic matter such as compost. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion planting with nitrogen-fixing species like Inga can enhance soil fertility. Protect young seedlings from frost and strong winds. Regular pruning is essential to maintain tree shape and promote heal
Potential Disturbances: Common pests include shoot borers and leaf miners. Natural pest management strategies include introducing beneficial insects such as parasitic wasps to control caterpillar populations and using neem oil as an organic spray. Planting marigolds nearby can help repel nematodes.
Growth Timeline
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