Meliaceae

Khaya anthotheca

East African mahogany · Mkangazi

Canopy/Emergment Tree

Common species

Size

Quantity

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About

This large, often evergreen tree can reach up to 60 metres, forming a rounded crown with a buttressed trunk in older specimens. Its dark, glossy green compound leaves consist of 3-7 pairs of leaflets. Small, sweetly scented white flowers develop into hard, woody, oval capsules that split to release winged seeds.

Where it works in Kilifi

An excellent choice for large gardens and parks in the Kilifi region, providing substantial shade. It thrives in full sun and deep, well-drained, fertile soils, often found near watercourses in its natural habitat. It tolerates strong winds but not direct maritime exposure.

Growing notes

This fast-growing tree can add up to 1.5 metres in height annually and, once established, can tolerate drought, though it prefers moist conditions. Young plants benefit from some shade initially but require full sun as they mature. Protect young trees from shoot borers and browsing animals.

Sources

Researched with web grounding from: sanbi.org, wikipedia.org, cabidigitallibrary.org, blogspot.com, worldagroforestry.org, pfaf.org. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.