Mahogany is native to southernmost Dade and Monroe counties and is currently listed as a state threatened species due to logging. However, it is readily available for purchase at many native nurseries in South Florida, and is commonly planted as a street and shade tree.
Is mahogany an invasive species?
Of these tree species, only mahogany is a potential bio-invasive species in the logged-over forest and is threatening to out compete the indigenous dipterocarp and non-dipterocarp tree species. ... The fruit of mahogany is a capsule and contains an average of 62 winged seeds (Anonymous, 1930).
Are mahogany trees protected in Florida?
In fact, Mahogany is under legal protection in Florida . It is on the state’s Endangered and Threatened list. Mahogany is not suitable for wet areas. Though many different trees from all over the world are called Mahogany, the name properly belongs to the species of the genus Swietenia.
Do mahogany trees grow in the United States?
The mahogany tree (Swietenia mahagnoni) is such a lovely shade tree that it’s too bad it can only grow in USDA zones 10 and 11. That means that if you want to see a mahogany tree in the United States, you’ll need to head to Southern Florida . ... For more information about mahogany trees and mahogany tree uses, read on.
Is mahogany native to South Florida?
A native of south Florida , mahogany will grow in full sun or partial shade on a wide range of soil types, and is quite resistant to salt spray.
Why is mahogany illegal?
Following the path of ivory, in 2003, mahogany was listed on the Convention on Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) as a species in need of strict regulation to prevent its extinction. Because Peruvian mahogany is traded in violation of CITES, it is illegal to trade or possess it under the U.S. Endangered Species Act.
Which is better narra or mahogany?
Mahogany is the cheapest, while Narra is the most expensive of the three. ... It also behaves better compared to Mahogany in terms of material ‘movement’ since it ‘moves’ less than Mahogany,” they explain.
Why is mahogany so expensive?
Mahogany is also costly because of its quality and appearance . It is among the most beautiful of the hardwoods and is solid, heavy and durable. There are countries that have production and shipping limits, which is also factored into the costs.
Can mahogany trees grow in Florida?
Mahogany is native to southernmost Dade and Monroe counties and is currently listed as a state threatened species due to logging. However, it is readily available for purchase at many native nurseries in South Florida, and is commonly planted as a street and shade tree.
Do you need a permit to cut down a tree in Florida?
Florida residents looking to trim, prune, or remove a dangerous tree from their property do not require permits now . They should hire a professional tree service company or an arborist for inspection to determine the best course of action.
Can you still buy mahogany?
This wood is from Central or South America and may be named Mahogany, Honduras Mahogany, South American Mahogany, American Mahogany or Genuine Mahogany. ... South American Mahogany will continue to be available but supplies will be limited and prices will be much more than they were just a few years ago.
Is mahogany better than teak?
In terms of hardness, mahogany is comparatively less hard and durable than teak . Teak is considered one of the most durable woods out there. ... Mahogany, while less durable, is still a highly durable wood that is used in making a lot of furniture articles, doors, cabinets, writing pens and even musical instruments.
How many years does it take a mahogany tree to grow?
Thousands of mahogany trees that the family planted stand tall and sturdy, but it may take five to 10 more years before they mature, and another 30 years before they reach full commercial potential, Mario Jr.
Where do most mahogany trees grow?
Mahogany grows only in fairly specific climate zones, which includes the West Indies, particularly Cuba , Santo Domingo, and Jamaica, with small quantities of the same varieties occurring in the southern tip of Florida.
Is mahogany fruit edible?
Langsatan. This tree, native to Southeast Asia, is one of a number of mahogany trees that produce edible fruit eaten locally . ... The translucent or light brown fruit aril (pulp surrounding the seeds) is eaten in the regions where it grows wild, but it is not much cultivated anywhere.
How do you identify mahogany trees?
Press your fingernail into the wood to determine whether or not it’s a soft or hardwood. If your fingernail leaves a mark, it is softwood. If not, it’s a hardwood, which means it might be mahogany.
