Overview

Swietenia mahogani is a tree tree in the genus Swietenia, part of the Meliaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Swietenia mahogani grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include specimen tree and timber production.

About

Swietenia mahogani is a deciduous tree cultivated primarily for its timber and used as a specimen in large sites. It belongs to the genus Swietenia in the Meliaceae family and has its main seasonal interest in spring and summer. In cultivation it prefers full sun and a neutral loam that drains freely, and it benefits from a south-facing, sheltered position in the UK. It is rated H4, meaning average hardiness across much of the country.

About the genus

Swietenia is a genus of trees in the chinaberry family, Meliaceae. It occurs natively in the Neotropics, from southern Florida, the Caribbean, Mexico and Central America south to Bolivia. The genus is named for Dutch-Austrian physician Gerard van Swieten (1700–1772).

Wikipedia contributors, "Swietenia", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Swietenia

In the garden

Swietenia mahogani is a member of the genus Swietenia (family Meliaceae) grown where a large, deciduous timber tree is required and where a prominent specimen will fit the space. Its periods of greatest garden interest occur in spring and summer, when the canopy is in leaf and the tree fulfils its role as both a landscape specimen and a potential source of high-quality timber. Plant it in full sun on a neutral loam that drains well; heavy, waterlogged ground is unsuitable. A south-facing, sheltered aspect reduces winter exposure and aligns with its H4 (average) hardiness, so select a site protected from prevailing winds. Aim for freely draining soil and avoid sites where roots will remain saturated through winter and spring. In UK gardens the tree is best used where it has room to develop as a standalone specimen, or in larger parkland and estate contexts where timber production is an intended long-term objective. Give consideration to placement so the spring and summer canopy can be appreciated from a house or path, and ensure the planting site is sheltered and south-facing to support seasonal growth.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Swietenia

Sunlight

Full sun

Soil type

Loam

Soil pH

Neutral

Soil moisture

Well-drained

Aspect

South-facing

Exposure

Sheltered

UK hardiness

H4

Plant details

Swietenia mahogani size, habit and characteristics

Plant type

Tree

Habit

Tree

Foliage

Deciduous

Suggested uses

Specimen tree, timber production

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Swietenia mahogani

Propagation

Seed

Pest resistance

Susceptible to scale insects

Disease resistance

Susceptible to powdery mildew

Frequently asked questions