Big-leaf mahogany
swietenia macrophylla
Also known as: ["Honduras mahogany","South American mahogany"]
Overview
A large deciduous tree native to the Neotropics, known for its valuable timber and large leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Sapindales |
| Family: | Meliaceae |
| Genus: | Swietenia |
| Botanical Name: | Swietenia macrophylla |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in tropical or subtropical regions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–40°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, loamy soil with added organic matter; cactus or succulent mix can work well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually or as needed to control size and shape; light pruning can be done anytime.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary, but avoid heavy pruning on young plants.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, adjust for intense summer sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight, protect from harsh midday sun, ensure adequate ventilation if grown indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; provide shade during peak summer hours; use sheer curtains to filter intense light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing to every 14–21 days in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid overwatering especially in cooler months.
Soil
deep, fertile, well-drained loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure soil is not compacted.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures, 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates brief periods below 50°F (10°C) but thrives in warmth.
Protect from frost; avoid placing near drafty windows; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with balanced liquid fertilizer, none in winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options for slow release.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting, remove lower leaves, apply rooting hormone, plant in medium, maintain humidity, keep warm and bright.
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 or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment can take several months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome or plastic bag, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a leaf node or branch junction; remove crossing or inward-growing branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased wood.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant (e.g., rubbing alcohol).
Checklist
Disinfect tools, prune selectively, remove dead/diseased wood, shape as desired, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if necessary, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil, ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Choose right pot size, prepare new soil mix, trim roots if needed, water after repotting, place in appropriate light.
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, apply until water drains from the bottom, ensure proper drainage to prevent waterlogging, water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage, incorporate compost for fertility, ensure aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, stunted growth, or browning leaf edges.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, may lead to root damage or death in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate roots with mulch, avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, reduced growth, or premature leaf drop in extreme heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity, water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase, dilute fertilizer, apply to moist soil, avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicSimilar to dogs, ingestion of the seeds of Swietenia macrophylla can cause mild gastrointestinal distress in cats. The effects are typically not life-threatening but should be addressed promptly.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe seeds of Swietenia macrophylla can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs if ingested. The toxicity is generally not severe but can lead to discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Humans
Slightly ToxicSwietenia macrophylla, commonly known as big-leaf mahogany, contains compounds that can cause mild toxicity when ingested or inhaled as wood dust. The seeds are particularly noted for their toxic potential, while the wood dust can irritate the respiratory system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested or inhaled
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Swietenia macrophylla endangered?
A: Yes, it is listed as Vulnerable (VU) on the IUCN Red List due to overexploitation.
Q: What is the wood of Swietenia macrophylla used for?
A: Its timber is highly valued for furniture, cabinetry, and musical instruments due to its durability and workability.
Q: Does Swietenia macrophylla require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun to partial shade in tropical and subtropical climates.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Meliaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
