| Utilized as | Shade, specimen tree |
| Scientific Name | Swietenia mahogoni (Linnaeus) Jacquin |
| Cold Hardy | Yes for South Florida, cannot freeze |
| Light Requirements | Full sun to partial shade |
| Flower Prominence | Low, small white or yellow flowers |
| Water Requirements | Drought Tolerant once established |
| Leaf Color | Medium green |
| Leaves | Deciduous |
| Height | 40-60ft |
| Salt Tolerance | High |
Tree prized worldwide for its distinctive wood, which ranges from pale salmon pink to rich burgundy in color, the mahogany tree is native to southern Florida and the Keys. Unfortunately harvested to near extinction, the tree is now rare in the wild. Luckily for homeowners and commercial landscape architects alike, this majestic tree is readily available at many Miami-area nurseries.
The mahogany can reach a height of 80 feet, with a trunk two feet or more in diameter. Such spectacular specimens are rare. Most mahogany trees top out at 30 to 40 feet with a canopy that spreads 20 feet or more. The trees grow quickly in well-drained soil and are drought resistant once established. They tolerate wind and salt spray, enjoy a humid climate and prefer full sun to partial shade.
Popular in parks, commercial developments and in large backyards, these evergreen trees provide shade and color year-round. New leaves appear shortly after old ones have finished. They make excellent windbreaks in coastal areas. Their canopies are lush but intermittent. Mahogany trees provide a depth of shade ideal for picnicking while permitting enough sun to filter through to allow lawns to flourish beneath them.
This luxurious shade tree is a stunner.