African Mahogany, Senegal Mahogany, Dry Zone Mahogany, Khaya Wood
Khaya senegalensis
🌿 Morphology
🌞 Growing conditions
🌍 Origin and family
🌾 Uses
Warning: Despite the care taken in writing this sheet, it is essential to cross-reference sources before using or consuming any plant. When in doubt, consult a qualified professional
Permaculture uses
Khaya senegalensis is primarily used for its high-quality timber, which is resistant to termites and decay. The bark has medicinal uses, including as a febrifuge and treatment for skin ailments. The oil from the seeds can be used for soap making. The tree's shade can be beneficial in agroforestry systems, and it can also serve as a windbreak. However, it is not commonly used as a food source or directly in garden settings in temperate climates.
Permapeople description
Khaya senegalensis is a species of tree in the Meliaceae family. It is found in Benin, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Ivory Coast, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Sudan, Togo, and Uganda.
Botanical description
Khaya senegalensis is a medium to large tree, typically reaching heights of 15-30 meters (50-100 feet), though it can grow larger in optimal conditions. The trunk is usually straight and cylindrical, with a diameter that can exceed 1 meter (3 feet). The bark is dark grey to brown, rough, and fissured. The leaves are pinnately compound, with 4-7 pairs of leaflets. The leaflets are ovate to elliptical, 5-15 cm (2-6 inches) long and 2-6 cm (0.8-2.4 inches) wide, with a pointed tip and entire margin. The flowers are small, fragrant, and creamy-white, borne in panicles. The fruit is a spherical capsule, 5-8 cm (2-3 inches) in diameter, which splits open to release numerous winged seeds.
Companion planting
Information on companion planting with Khaya senegalensis is limited. Due to its size and growth habit, it is best suited for integration into agroforestry systems where it can provide shade to understory crops. Consider nutrient needs of the understory when using the tree.
Propagation methods
Khaya senegalensis can be propagated by seeds or cuttings. Seed propagation is the most common method. Seeds should be sown fresh in well-draining soil. Cuttings can be taken from semi-hardwood stems and rooted in a suitable medium.
History and traditions
Khaya senegalensis has a long history of use in traditional African medicine. The bark is traditionally used to treat fever, malaria, and various skin conditions. It has also been used as an astringent and antiseptic. The wood has been used for centuries in furniture making, construction, and carving due to its durability and attractive grain. It also holds cultural significance in certain regions.
Usage calendar
Flowering typically occurs during the dry season. Fruit maturation takes several months. Seed collection is best done when the capsules are dry and beginning to split open. Planting is typically done at the beginning of the rainy season. Pruning, if needed, can be done during the dormant season.