AFRICAN MAHAGONY

AFRICAN MAHAGONY

1. Common & Scientific Name + Family

Common Name: African Mahogany

Scientific Name: Khaya senegalensis

Family: Meliaceae

2. Local Uses & Fun Facts

🌳 Timber:

Highly valued for furniture, flooring, and musical instruments due to its durability and beautiful reddish-brown color.

🌿 Medicinal Uses: Bark, leaves, and seeds traditionally used for fever, malaria, and digestive disorders in Africa.

🌍 Fun Fact: Often planted as an avenue tree because of its large canopy and fast growth.

Sometimes confused with true Mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla), but African Mahogany is native to Africa.

3. Ecological Role

🌱 Soil & Water: Provides shade, prevents soil erosion, and contributes to microclimate regulation.

🐦 Wildlife Habitat: Birds and insects use the canopy for nesting and food.

🌳 Carbon Sequestration: Large size makes it important for absorbing CO₂ in tropical regions.

4. Cultural Significance

🏡 Landscaping & Symbolism: Represents strength, durability, and prestige because of its timber.

🌍 Economic Role: Central to many African communities for trade, woodworking, and cultural heritage.

🪑 Historic Use: Used for royal furniture and ceremonial items in some African cultures.