Botanical Description
Big-Leaf Mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla) is a fast-growing, deciduous nvasive tree species that can grow up to 40 m tall, the bark is dark brown and grey with ridged and flaky bark at maturity. The leaves are pinnately compound with asymmetrical leaflets, red or pink when young but it gradually changes into dark green once mature. Flowers borne upon a paniculate inflorescence, florets are small, white, and fragrant. The fruit is a woody capsule which can reach up to 40 cm long, dehiscent, splits from apex to base once dry to release winged seeds.
⚠️ Invasive Status:
Swietenia macrophylla is considered an invasive species in the Philippines. Though introduced for timber and ornamental use, it has spread aggressively in some forest ecosystems, outcompeting native flora and altering natural habitat
Uses:
Traditional and Practical Uses
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Timber:
The produced by this tree highly valued for its strength, durability, and reddish-brown color. It is used extensively in furniture making, cabinetry, musical instruments, boats, and caskets. Because of its fast growth, it is often planted in urban landscapes as a shade tree.
