African Mahogany
melia volkensii
Also known as: ["African Mahogany","Mukau"]
Overview
A deciduous tree native to East Africa, valued for its timber and ecological significance.
Benefits & Perks
["fast growing","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Sapindales |
| Family: | Meliaceae |
| Genus: | Melia |
| Botanical Name: | Melia volkensii |
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":"15–35°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. A mix of compost, sand, and topsoil works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually or every 2–3 years, depending on growth rate and desired shape.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate pruning to shape the plant and remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates some shade but may become leggy with insufficient light.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight to prevent scorching. For indoor plants, place near a south-facing window. Outdoor plants benefit from morning sun and afternoon shade in hot climates.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during dry periods, less frequently in rainy seasons
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry partially between waterings, and avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Thrives in warm temperatures (20–30°C). Tolerates mild frosts but prefers stable, warm conditions year-round.
Avoid placing near drafty windows; use a thermometer to monitor microclimates; adjust watering in extreme heat.
Fertilizing
every 3 months during active growth, with balanced slow-release fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent salt buildup; flush soil occasionally to remove excess salts.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds. Stem cuttings are faster and more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 10–15 cm cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Water lightly.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (20–25°C), humid (60–70%), and bright indirect light with some shade.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster and more reliable root development.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle, plastic wrap.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a leaf node or branch junction. Remove crossing or crowded branches to improve airflow.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or diseased growth. Prune after flowering or in early spring.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant (e.g., rubbing alcohol).
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune during dormancy or after flowering; remove dead/diseased wood; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the active growth period begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 2–5 cm larger in diameter than the current one, ensuring good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage holes; use fresh soil mix; water sparingly post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, leaf drop, stunted growth, or browning leaf edges in extreme cold or heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf drop or dieback. Prolonged cold can damage roots and lead to fungal infections.
Solution: Protect from frost with frost cloth or move to a sheltered location. Mulch around the base to insulate roots.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering. High humidity combined with heat may promote fungal diseases.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase watering, and ensure good air circulation to reduce humidity.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; use correct dilution; apply to moist soil; avoid foliage contact.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer (10-10-10) in spring and summer, diluted to half strength monthly. Reduce or stop fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are particularly sensitive to the meliatoxins found in Melia volkensii. Ingestion can result in severe gastrointestinal distress and neurological symptoms, which may be life-threatening if not addressed promptly.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Melia volkensii can lead to severe gastrointestinal upset and potential neurological effects due to the presence of meliatoxins. These compounds can disrupt normal cellular functions and cause systemic toxicity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicMelia volkensii contains meliatoxins, which can cause mild to moderate gastrointestinal and neurological disturbances upon ingestion. The toxins interfere with enzymatic processes and may lead to systemic effects if consumed in significant quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Melia volkensii suitable for urban planting?
A: Yes, it is drought-tolerant and can thrive in urban environments with adequate space.
Q: What is the primary use of Melia volkensii?
A: It is primarily valued for its high-quality timber, which is used in construction and furniture.
Q: Does Melia volkensii attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its flowering and fruiting habits.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Meliaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during dry p |
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