Meliaceae
Khaya anthotheca
East African mahogany · Mkangazi
T
Available in our catalogue
We propagate this species and you can order it from our catalogue.
View in catalogue →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.