Also known as American Mahogany · Cuban Mahogany · Dwarf Stonewort
West Indian Mahogany (Swietenia mahagoni) is a dense, evergreen tree prized for its durable, reddish-brown timber, historically used in fine furniture and boat building.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Requires ample sunlight for optimal growth.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Prefers tropical or subtropical climates; sensitive to frost.
Low
25% intensity
Fertilize sparingly, especially mature trees.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
West Indian Mahogany prefers consistently moist soil but dislikes waterlogging. Water deeply when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Reduce watering slightly during cooler, dormant periods.
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot, especially in containers.
Prune for structural integrity and to remove dead or crossing branches, ideally during the dormant season.
Shaping can be done to encourage a desirable form, but heavy pruning is best avoided as it can impact growth and timber quality. Remove suckers from the base promptly.
Propagation is primarily done through seeds, which should be sown as soon as they are mature and viable. Cuttings can also be attempted, but success rates can be variable.
Germination may require warm temperatures and consistent moisture.
Young plants in containers benefit from repotting every 1-2 years into slightly larger pots with well-draining soil. Repot when the root system has filled the current pot.
Mature trees are best left undisturbed in their final location.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of West Indian Mahogany (Swietenia mahagoni)
Where West Indian Mahogany (Swietenia mahagoni) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Meliaceae |
| Genus | Swietenia |
| Species | Swietenia mahagoni |
Similar in genus Swietenia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
