African Mahogany
Khaya senegalensis
Description
A large, fast-growing deciduous tree with a dense, wide-spreading crown, providing excellent shade. It is highly valued for its high-quality, reddish-brown timber that is both beautiful and durable. It thrives in the savannas and forests of West and Central Africa.
Common Uses
Daily Life Uses
- Often planted as a shade tree in urban and rural areas.
- The bark is used to create a red-brown dye.
Medical Uses
- The bitter-tasting bark is widely used in traditional African medicine to treat fevers, malaria, and stomach ailments.
Industrial Uses
- Premium furniture
- High-end cabinetry
- Decorative veneer
- Boatbuilding and interior paneling
General Uses
- Drought-resistant, making it suitable for afforestation in dry regions.
Fun Facts
The wood of African Mahogany is naturally resistant to termites and other wood-boring insects, which contributes to its exceptional durability for construction and furniture.
Location
Lat: 12.58
Lon: -7.99