Water
Sapele prefers consistent moisture but dislikes waterlogged soil. Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Reduce watering frequency during cooler months to prevent root rot.
Ensure good drainage to avoid issues.
Also known as Aboudikro · Sapele-Mahogany · Sapeli-Mahogany
Sapele (Entandrophragma cylindricum) is a large hardwood tree native to tropical Africa, prized for its durable, reddish-brown timber used in furniture, flooring, and mus
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
High
75% intensity
Prefers full sun for optimal growth, but can tolerate partial shade. Protect from intense afternoon sun in very hot climates.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allow topsoil to dry slightly between waterings.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Thrives in warm temperatures, ideally between 20-27°C. Protect from frost and cold drafts.
Low
25% intensity
Fertilize sparingly during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted.
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
Sapele prefers consistent moisture but dislikes waterlogged soil. Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Reduce watering frequency during cooler months to prevent root rot.
Ensure good drainage to avoid issues.
Pruning is generally minimal for sapele, primarily for shaping or removing dead/damaged branches. Perform pruning in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Use clean, sharp tools to make precise cuts and promote healthy regrowth.
Propagation is typically done by seeds sown in well-draining compost under warm, humid conditions. Cuttings are also possible but can be challenging. Success rates are higher with ripe seeds from mature trees.
Young sapele trees may need repotting every 1-2 years to accommodate root growth. Choose a pot with drainage holes and use a well-draining potting mix.
Repot in spring, and once established, repotting can be less frequent.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Sapele (Entandrophragma cylindricum)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Meliaceae |
| Genus | Entandrophragma |
| Species | Entandrophragma cylindricum |
Similar in genus Entandrophragma
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
