Senegal Mahogany

Senegal Mahogany

Senegal Mahogany (Khaya senegalensis)
Family: Meliaceae

The Senegal Mahogany is a fast growing evergreen tree. It can grow to more than 30m in height, and has a girth of 1 – 2m. It has a straight, robust and cylindrical trunk, with buttresses at the base.

This statuesque tree has a large bushy crown, which provides good shade. It is suitable for planting as a shade and avenue tree.

Its compound leaves are made up of leaflets that are glossy dark green on the upper side and light green on the underside. It has clusters of small, white flowers that give way to round fruits. The fruits split open to release numerous brown winged seeds that are dispersed by wind.

The Khayas (Khaya senegalensis and Khaya grandiflora) are closely related to the true Mahoganies (genus Swietenia). Their timbers are similar in quality.