Forest Mahogany
trichilia dregeana
Also known as: ["Forest Mahogany","Drege's Trichilia"]
Overview
A large evergreen tree native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, valued for its timber and ornamental qualities.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Sapindales |
| Family: | Meliaceae |
| Genus: | Trichilia |
| Botanical Name: | Trichilia dregeana |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: indoor or sheltered outdoor location with protection from strong winds
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added organic matter and perlite.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually or as needed to control size and shape.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light, protect from intense sun to prevent scorching, adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid overwatering especially in low light.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pH is within preferred range.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid prolonged exposure to extremes.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain stable conditions during flowering.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or air layering.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem, cut below node, apply hormone, plant in medium, maintain humidity, wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (75–85°F), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment takes several months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, plastic wrap or dome.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective cutting of stems, pinch back tips for bushier growth.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant, remove dead/damaged growth, encourage bushier form, maintain size.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune during active growth, remove dead/diseased parts, shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the main growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot, use fresh soil, water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensure even moisture distribution, allow excess water to drain completely, water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage, incorporate compost for fertility, ensure aeration with chunky components.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, stunted growth, or bud drop.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration or drop; prolonged cold can lead to root damage.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate pots, avoid cold drafts, maintain consistent temperatures.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced vigor due to excessive heat and dryness.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, water more frequently, ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase, use diluted fertilizer, apply to moist soil, stop in dormant season.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicTrichilia dregeana is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of adverse effects in felines after exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicTrichilia dregeana is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects in canines after exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicTrichilia dregeana is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans under normal conditions. The plant has no reported adverse effects on human physiology.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Trichilia dregeana suitable for indoor cultivation?
A: No, it is a large tree and requires outdoor space.
Q: Does this plant have any medicinal uses?
A: Traditional uses are documented, but scientific validation is limited.
Q: How fast does Trichilia dregeana grow?
A: It grows at a moderate pace, typically reaching significant height over several years.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Meliaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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