A tree native to Africa, its common names include African mahogany, Dry zone mahogany, Gambia mahogany, Khaya wood, and Senegal mahogany. It is an evergreen or semi-deciduous tree. It grows to a height between 50 and 100 feet. The trunk diameter can be as wide as 3 feet and has dark gray bark with scales in various shades of red. The trunk also excretes red sap.
Leaves are arranged alternatively, dark green on the upside and light green on the underside. They are elliptical in shape. The tree consists of pale white flowers that are borne in clusters. The fruits are wooden capsules that contain numerous winged seeds. At their ripening stage, they turn from a gray color to a black color.
It’s Uses
African mahogany releases a sulfur compound that can reduce global warming. It also aids in increasing groundwater levels. It is used as a laxative, treating vomiting and promoting digestion. The oil extracted from its seeds can be used in cooking. Its bark is used as a fever remedy. The wood has an attractive reddish-brown color, thus, it’s used for furniture, flooring, and boat-building. The bark extract is sometimes used for tanning leather.
Animal Life dependent on this tree
Sunbirds are usually attracted to the red color and are thus attracted to the tree due to its red scaly bark. Young African mahogany trees can be infested by the moth Streblote helpsi. It is also attractive to weaver ants.
