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West Indian Mahogany,
Swietenia mahagoni

Go to - Landscape Trees
Landscape Shrubs

Family - Meliaceae

Habitat - Hammocks of extreme southern Florida and the Keys

This large native tree is capable of reaching 75 to 80 feet in height, although it is more commonly seen in the 35 - 40 foot range with an equal spread. Bark on older trees is dark brown and deeply fissured. Dark green leaves are alternate, pinnately compound - leaflets are ovate to lanceolate with entire margins.

Mahogany blooms in springtime producing small, inconspicuous flowers that are white to yellowish in color. The hard, 6 inch long seed pods split open while still on the tree, releasing the winged seeds.

U.S.D.A. Zones 10-11, briefly deciduous or evergreen, generally the new leaves in spring emerge as old ones are shed.

Young trees are relatively fast growing under good conditions - preferring full sun, well drained soils rich in organic content and a median amount of moisture.

Mahogany is salt & wind resistant & fairly drought tolerant once established.

Mature trees have a symmetrical, rounded canopy that allows enough sunlight through for lawns to grow, should not be planted closer than 8-10 feet to sidewalks, driveways or other structures where surface roots can cause damage over time.

Native Mahogany trees in South Florida were heavily logged for the strong, attractive wood and it is now listed as threatened.

Mahogany trees are available at many nurseries or it can be easily grown from seed.

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