Royal mahogany - Cojoba arborea (Care, Characteristics, Distribution, Images)

Royal mahogany

Royal mahogany is commonly found in damp forests and is harvested for its wood in the West Indies. The lumber is resistant to insects and is used for flooring, heavy construction, furniture, and making paper. However, royal mahogany is commonly cultivated for its ornamental value and makes for a great shade tree. It is often called the "coral snake tree" for the open, hanging red and black seed pods that look like snakes.

Scientific classification

Species

Royal mahogany (Cojoba arborea)

Legumes, milkworts and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Tree

Plant Type

Spring, Early summer

Bloom Time

8 m to 18 m

Plant Height

1 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

Images of Royal mahogany

Distribution of Royal mahogany

Distribution Map

Royal mahogany is a plant native to the tropical regions of Central America, the northern parts of South America, and the Caribbean. It has been cultivated and may be found in similar tropical climates where conditions allow for its growth, though its primary range remains within its native major regions.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Lowland, coastal forests, mountains

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Care Guide for Royal mahogany

Every 2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Royal mahogany flourishes in tropical-like conditions and prefers consistent moisture, benefiting from biweekly watering for optimal foliage. While moderately drought-tolerant, it efficiently retains water within its dense canopy, adapting well to outdoor environments and less frequent rainfall.

Fertilize: To enhance royal mahogany's growth, apply high nitrogen fertilizer monthly during the growing season, reducing in winter. Always water after fertilizing. Adjust amounts according to royal mahogany's size and health. For juvenile royal mahogany, use lower concentrations. Monitor for nutrient deficiencies or excesses to maintain optimal health.

Pruning: Royal mahogany features elegant foliage and a sturdy structure. Prune from early to late winter to encourage growth, remove dead branches, and shape the canopy for light and airflow. Sterilize tools to prevent disease; consider its large mature size for proper care.

Propagation: Royal mahogany, from the Fabaceae family, is primarily propagated by semi-woody stem cuttings taken from healthy parent plants. Using rooting hormones and maintaining a moist, well-draining medium enhances root development, while protecting from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures promotes optimal growth.

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