West Indian Mahogany

Binomial Swietenia macrophylla King
Family Meliaceae
Tamil Name மகாகனி/தேன்கனி(Mahakani/Thaenkani)
Habit A large evergreen tree with an umbrella-shaped crown
Bark Reddish-brown in colour which darkens over time
Pollinators Insects, bees, moths and thrips
Native to Central and South America Swietenia macrophylla is also called ‘sky fruit’ due to its upward trend of its fruits towards the sky. It is suitable for large-scale timber production plantations because of its excellent timber quality. The wood can be used for construction materials, plywood (veneer), high-grade furniture and cabinet making. It is also suitable for panelling, framing, flooring, automobile bodies, interior trim of boats, radio and phonograph cabinets, bodies of musical instruments, mouldings and other ornaments. The tree has been used in Asia and many other countries to treat diverse ailments based on its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant effects, antimutagenic, anticancer, antitumor and antidiabetic activities. The fruit of the tree has been used in health care products for the improvement of blood circulation and skin condition. The Wood is used for construction materials, plywood (veneer), high-grade furniture and cabinet making. The trees on campus are about 7 years old and are yet to produce flowers and fruits.
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