Scientific Name
Khaya senegalensis
Other Common Name(s)
Dry Zone Mahogany, Senegal Mahogany, Benin Mahogany
Height
Up to 30 m
Flowering Season
March to May
Fruiting Season
June
Reproduction
Pollinated by bees and moths. Seeds dispersed by wind.
Fun Facts
To anchor the tree and maximise water absorption, African mahogany has a strong taproot that grows quickly and penetrates deep into the soil. This enables the tree to withstand droughts and strong wind.
In West Africa, African mahogany is important for the culture and economy of the Fulani people. They harvest the foliage for feeding cattle. The milk obtained from the cows is either consumed or sold in local markets as a source of income.
Origins
Threats & Conservation
Threats & Conservation
Overexploitation of Biological Resources
African mahogany provides nectar and pollen for honeybees. This tree species is overexploited for timber, medicine and fodder. Apart from heavy local consumption, it is also popular in international trade. The decline of this species would not only have an ecological impact, but also threaten the livelihood of local communities.
