Mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla)

Mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla) Plant Guide

Local Indian Name: Mahogany

Scientific Name: Swietenia macrophylla

Family: Meliaceae (Mahogany Family)

Category: Timber Tree

Subcategory: Hardwood Tree

Native Region:

• Origin: South America (Brazil, Peru, Mexico) and Central America

• Introduced in India: Primarily grown in Assam, West Bengal, Kerala, Maharashtra, and Karnataka

Introduction

Mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla), commonly known as big-leaf mahogany, is a fast-growing hardwood tree prized for its durable, reddish-brown timber. It is one of the most valuable commercial timber trees in the world. Mahogany is extensively cultivated in India due to its high market demand, environmental adaptability, and economic benefits.

Importance & Benefits

Environmental Benefits:

• Carbon Sequestration: Absorbs high amounts of CO₂, improving air quality.

• Erosion Control: Strong root system prevents soil erosion.

• Shade Tree: Provides dense shade and is used in agroforestry.

Economic Benefits:

• High-value timber for furniture, plywood, and musical instruments.

• Demand in international markets, making it a profitable crop for farmers.

• Minimal maintenance costs after initial planting years.

Medicinal Benefits:

• Mahogany bark and leaves are used in Ayurveda for treating diabetes, fever, and inflammation.

• Extracts have antibacterial and antifungal properties.

Description and Cultivation

Botanical Description:

• Height: Grows up to 30-40 meters.

• Trunk & Bark: Straight trunk with reddish-brown, smooth bark.

• Leaves: Large, compound, glossy green.

• Flowers: Small, yellowish-green, fragrant, appearing in clusters.

• Fruits: Woody capsules containing winged seeds.

Varieties and Cultivars

• Swietenia macrophylla (Big-leaf Mahogany) – Most commonly cultivated variety.

• Swietenia mahagoni (West Indian Mahogany) – Native to the Caribbean, more drought-resistant.

• Swietenia humilis (Pacific Mahogany) – Smaller tree, grown in specific regions.

Location and Light

• Climate: Thrives in tropical and subtropical climates.

• Sunlight: Requires full sunlight for optimal growth.

• Elevation: Can grow at low to medium altitudes (100-1200m above sea level).

Soil Preparation

• Type: Prefers well-drained loamy or sandy soil.

• pH Range: 5.5 to 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral).

• Soil Enrichment: Organic compost and farmyard manure improve soil fertility.

Planting

• Best Planting Season: June to August (monsoon season).

• Spacing: 4-6 meters apart for commercial plantations.

• Pit Size: 45 cm x 45 cm x 45 cm, filled with organic manure and topsoil.

Watering

• Young Plants: Water twice a week in the first two years.

• Mature Trees: Require water only during prolonged droughts.

• Overwatering should be avoided to prevent root rot.

Pruning

• Purpose: Encourages straight trunk growth and improves wood quality.

• Timing: Best done after 2-3 years of planting.

• Method: Remove weak, diseased, and lower side branches.

Pest and Disease Management

Common Pests:

• Shoot Borer: Damages young shoots.

• Leaf Webber: Causes defoliation.

• Termites: Attack the roots and trunk.

Common Diseases:

• Damping Off: Affects seedlings in nurseries.

• Root Rot: Due to excessive moisture and poor drainage.

Management Practices:

• Use organic pest repellents like neem oil.

• Apply bio-fertilizers to enhance soil health.

• Ensure proper spacing and drainage to prevent fungal infections.

Environmental Conditions

• Temperature Range: 25°C to 35°C is ideal.

• Rainfall: Requires 1000-2500 mm annually.

• Humidity: Prefers moderate humidity levels (60-80%).

Propagation

• Seed Propagation: Most commonly used; germination within 2-3 weeks.

• Grafting & Budding: Used to maintain superior traits.

• Tissue Culture: Not widely used due to high costs.

Uses

Commercial Uses:

• Premium-grade furniture, doors, and cabinets.

• High-quality plywood and veneer.

• Used in boat-building due to its water resistance.

• Musical instruments, decorative woodwork, and handicrafts.

Traditional & Medicinal Uses:

• Bark decoctions used for treating fevers and infections.

• Wood extracts used in Ayurvedic medicine.

Monetary Benefits

• Timber Market Demand:

  • Mahogany wood is sold at ₹2000-5000 per cubic foot, depending on quality.

• Income Potential:

  • One acre of mahogany plantation (300-400 trees) can generate ₹40-50 lakhs after 12-15 years.

• Low Maintenance:

  • Requires minimal inputs after the first three years.

• Government Support:

  • Eligible for financial assistance under National Agroforestry Policy.

References:

1. Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE) Guidelines on Mahogany Cultivation.

2. National Agroforestry Policy Reports on High-Value Timber Trees.

3. Ayurvedic Texts on the Medicinal Properties of Mahogany.

4. Market Research Reports on Mahogany Timber Trade and Pricing.