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Chinese mahogany

How to identify Chinese mahogany (Toona sinensis)

Chinese mahogany, also known as Tun tree, Chinese toon

Chinese mahogany is a deciduous tree characterized by its tall growth, reaching 15-20 feet (4.5-6 meters) and sometimes much taller. It features eye-catching, vertical stems and flamboyant pink new growth that shifts to a green hue as the foliage matures. The leaves are notably long, spanning 1-2 feet (30-60 cm), with pointed oblong leaflets. It boasts small white flowers that dangle in clusters in the spring. The tree also produces star-shaped capsules and has a tendency to spread through suckers.

Lifespan

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type

Plant Type: Tree

Leaf Type

Leaf Type: Deciduous

Quickly Identify Chinese mahogany

1

Tall deciduous tree, reaching 15-20 feet (4.5-6 meters) with vertical stems.

2

Eye-catching pink new growth shifting to green, long leaves spanning 1-2 feet (30-60 cm).

3

Delicate white to pale pink flowers in pendulous panicles, star-like structure.

4

Distinctive star-shaped woody capsules, green to brown color transition, clusters.

5

Bark transitions from smooth gray to dark brown to red, aromatic when cut.

Chinese mahoganyChinese mahoganyChinese mahoganyChinese mahoganyChinese mahogany

Detailed Traits of Chinese mahogany

Leaf Features

Chinese mahogany features alternate, pinnately compound leaves ranging from 10-20 inches (25-50 cm) long, each comprised of 10-22 leaflets. The individual leaflets measure 2.5-5.5 inches (6-14 cm) in length and display entire or slightly serrate margins. Typically, the terminal leaflet is absent but can sometimes be present. The new foliage emerges with a distinct reddish-purple hue.

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Flower Features

The delicate flowers of chinese mahogany are predominantly white to pale pink and measure about 4 mm in diameter. They are arranged in pendulous panicles that can grow up to 12 inches (30 cm) long. Blooming in May to June, these small, fragrant flowers are densely clustered, giving a slightly drooping appearance. Each flower consists of numerous petals that give it a star-like structure, enhancing its ornamental appeal during the blooming season.

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Fruit Features

The fruit of chinese mahogany develops into a distinctive woody, star-shaped capsule, measuring approximately 0.5-1 inch (1.27-2.54 cm) in length. The capsules feature a textured surface and may appear in clusters. Upon maturity, they split open to release winged seeds, a trait that is integral to its propagation. The color transitions from a greenish hue when young to a more seasoned brown as they age and desiccate. This capsule's unique shape and texture are vital for its recognition among novice plant enthusiasts.

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Key Facts About Chinese mahogany

Attributes of Chinese mahogany
Lifespan
Perennial
Plant Type
Tree
Plant Height
25 m
Spread
8 m
Leaf Color
Green
Yellow
Stem Color
Green
White
Yellow
Brown
Leaf type
Deciduous
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Scientific Classification of Chinese mahogany

Family
Mahogany
Icon allow
Genus
Toona
Icon allow
Species
Chinese mahogany (Toona sinensis)
Learn More About the Chinese mahogany

Distribution Map of Chinese mahogany

Chinese mahogany is primarily native to regions of South and Southeast Asia, thriving in a variety of local ecosystems. Beyond its native habitat, chinese mahogany has been introduced to parts of East Asia, the African Great Lakes region, and several countries in Oceania. In terms of cultivation, chinese mahogany is grown in several areas outside its indigenous range due to its usefulness. Although it is sometimes thought to be invasive, specifically in parts of Central Africa, it may have an impact on local ecosystems in certain areas.
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Potentially invasive
Exotic
No species reported
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