What are the various common names used to refer to Swietenia mahagoni?

Swietenia mahagoni is known by several common names, including American mahogany, Cuban mahogany, small-leaved mahogany, and West Indian mahogany.

Can you outline the scientific classification of Swietenia mahagoni from kingdom to species?

The scientific classification of Swietenia mahagoni is as follows: Kingdom: Plantae, Clade: Tracheophytes, Clade: Angiosperms, Clade: Eudicots, Clade: Rosids, Order: Sapindales, Family: Meliaceae, Genus: Swietenia, Species: Swietenia mahagoni.

Which species of Swietenia is identified as the source of the original mahogany wood?

The species Swietenia mahagoni is identified as the source from which the original mahogany wood was produced. This wood is highly valued for its distinctive color and durability.

What is the significance of Swietenia mahagoni in the Dominican Republic?

Swietenia mahagoni holds the distinction of being the national tree of the Dominican Republic.

What geographical areas comprise the native range of Swietenia mahagoni?

Swietenia mahagoni is native to the islands of the West Indies, including the Bahamas, Cuba, Jamaica, the Cayman Islands, and Hispaniola (covering the Dominican Republic and Haiti). It is also native to South Florida in the United States, which marks the northernmost extent of its range.

When was the earliest recorded use of S. mahagoni documented, and where did it occur?

The earliest recorded use of S. mahagoni dates back to 1514, associated with a cross placed in the Basilica Cathedral of Santa María la Menor in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. This historic church, completed around 1540, features interior woodwork made of mahogany that remains in excellent condition after centuries.

How did Spanish explorers utilize mahogany wood between 1521 and 1540?

Between 1521 and 1540, Spanish explorers employed mahogany wood for constructing canoes and for ship repair work within the West Indies. This indicates its early recognition for practical maritime applications.

For what purpose was West Indies mahogany specified in the construction of El Escorial during the Renaissance?

West Indies mahogany was specified for the construction and interior decoration of El Escorial, one of Europe's grandest royal residences during the Renaissance. King Philip II of Spain's advisors requisitioned it for interior trim work and elaborate furniture for the complex, highlighting its esteemed status.

What role did mahogany play in European shipbuilding during the 18th century?

During the 18th century, mahogany became the primary wood employed in Europe for shipbuilding. Its desirable properties made it the preferred material for constructing vessels.

According to Mark Catesby's Natural History, what properties made mahogany superior to oak for ship construction?

Mark Catesby described mahogany as excelling oak for shipbuilding due to its durability and its ability to resist gunshots without splintering. These qualities made it a highly valued material for naval vessels.

What historical example demonstrates the exceptional durability of West Indies mahogany in shipbuilding?

The Spanish man-of-war Gibraltar, captured in 1780 and broken up in 1836, served as an example of mahogany's durability. Its timbers were found to be so sound after 56 years of service that they were used to make tables, indicating remarkable longevity and resistance to decay.

How was mahogany utilized in naval construction during World War II?

During World War II, mahogany was extensively used in the construction of various types of boats, from large PT boats (motor Patrol Torpedo) to smaller rescue boats. Its use for boat construction saw a significant increase from 1940 to 1943.

Describe the typical construction method for PT boats using mahogany during WWII.

PT boats were often constructed using diagonally layered mahogany planks, with a layer of canvas impregnated with glue sandwiched between them. This construction method contributed to their resilience, with some boats withstanding significant battle damage and remaining afloat.

What qualities make mahogany suitable for use in small boats and high-speed boats according to the U.S. Navy Bureau of Ships?

The U.S. Navy Bureau of Ships approves mahogany for small and high-speed boats because it is easy to work with, has a medium weight, adequate strength, low shrinking and swelling characteristics, and high resistance to decay. These attributes ensure both ease of construction and longevity.

When did mahogany begin to be significantly used in English furniture-making?

Mahogany was not widely used in English furniture-making until the 18th century, as oak and walnut were the predominant woods used domestically prior to that period. Its introduction marked a significant shift in furniture design and production.

What period in British furniture-making is referred to as the Age of Mahogany?

Percy Macquoid, a connoisseur of English furniture, referred to the 18th century as the Age of Mahogany because mahogany became the essential material that defined this golden age of British furniture-making, influencing styles and craftsmanship.

How did mahogany influence American furniture design in the Federal Style?

The Federal Style of American furniture design, spanning from 1780 to 1830, is essentially characterized as a mahogany style due to the extensive use of the wood during that period. This wood was central to the aesthetic and construction of furniture from this era.

Why is mahogany wood, from Swietenia species, valued for modern musical instruments?

Mahogany wood is valued for modern musical instruments due to its superior tonewood qualities, which contribute to the sound and resonance of the instruments. It is prized for its tonal characteristics and workability.

In which parts of guitars and mandolins is mahogany sometimes used?

Mahogany is sometimes utilized in the top, back, sides, and neck of guitars, and it is also found in older mandolins. Its use in these instruments is due to its acoustic properties.

Name specific Gibson Les Paul models that feature mahogany.

Specific Gibson Les Paul models that utilize mahogany include the Custom, the Deluxe, and the Studio. Mahogany is a key component in the construction of these iconic electric guitars.

How is mahogany incorporated into high-end drum shells?

High-end drum shells are often made with three-ply laminations consisting of mahogany, poplar, and mahogany layers. This construction method contributes to the drums' tonal quality and structural integrity.

What component of marimbas is made from mahogany?

The wooden bars of marimbas are made from mahogany. These bars are crucial for producing the instrument's distinctive sound.

What research has been conducted regarding the potential of Swietenia mahagoni for pest control?

Research has explored the acaricidal effects of the leaves and bark of Swietenia mahagoni as a means to control Varroa destructor, a significant pest of honey bees. This research investigates natural methods for pest management in apiculture.

Whose publication and description of the mahogany tree formed the basis for its scientific naming by Linnaeus?

Mark Catesby's hand-colored plate and description of the mahogany tree in his 1729 publication, The Natural History of Carolina, Florida, and the Bahama Islands, served as the basis for Linnaeus to name it using his binomial nomenclature. Catesby's work provided the foundational botanical details.

What was the original binomial name given to the mahogany tree by Carl Linnaeus?

Carl Linnaeus originally named the mahogany tree Cedrela mahagoni in 1758. This was the initial scientific classification before it was later moved to the genus Swietenia.

Who reclassified Cedrela mahagoni into the genus Swietenia, and when did this occur?

Nikolaus Joseph von Jacquin reclassified the mahogany tree into his newly created genus, Swietenia, in 1760, two years after Linnaeus's description. This classification remains the accepted scientific placement for the species.

What is the typical height range for Swietenia mahagoni trees?

Swietenia mahagoni is a medium-sized tree that typically grows to a height of 30 to 35 meters (approximately 98 to 115 feet) tall. This size makes it a substantial specimen in its native habitat.

Can you describe the leaves of Swietenia mahagoni?

The leaves of Swietenia mahagoni are pinnate, measuring 12 to 25 centimeters (4.7 to 9.8 inches) in length. They consist of four to eight leaflets, each about 5 to 6 centimeters (2.0 to 2.4 inches) long and 2 to 3 centimeters (0.79 to 1.18 inches) broad, and they do not have a terminal leaflet. This structure is characteristic of many hardwood trees.

What are the characteristics of the fruit and seeds of S. mahagoni?

The fruit of S. mahagoni is a woody capsule, measuring 5 to 10 centimeters (2.0 to 3.9 inches) long and 3 to 6 centimeters (1.2 to 2.4 inches) broad. This capsule contains numerous seeds, each equipped with a wing, which aids in their dispersal.

How does the bark of Swietenia mahagoni change as the tree matures?

The bark of Swietenia mahagoni is smooth and grayish on younger trees, but it becomes darker and develops furrows as the tree ages. This change in texture is common in many tree species as they grow.

What is the deciduous behavior of mahoganies in South Florida?

In South Florida, mahoganies are considered semi-deciduous, meaning they lose all or most of their leaves over the winter or shed them in the spring as new growth emerges. This adaptation helps them manage water and temperature fluctuations.

What color are the new leaves of Swietenia mahagoni when they emerge?

The new leaves of Swietenia mahagoni emerge with a blood-red to pinkish hue before quickly turning a bright, light green as they mature and darken. This vibrant color change is a notable feature of the tree's growth cycle.

What notable characteristic does Swietenia mahagoni possess regarding its resilience to weather?

Swietenia mahagoni has demonstrated strong wind resistance, frequently surviving major hurricanes. This resilience makes it a valuable tree in hurricane-prone regions.

Why are supplies of Swietenia mahagoni considered rare in the market?

Supplies of S. mahagoni are rare primarily due to historic over-harvesting. Consequently, most mahogany sold today comes from related species, which may grow faster but yield wood of lower quality.

In what types of regions is S. mahagoni cultivated as an ornamental tree?

S. mahagoni is cultivated as an ornamental tree in subtropical and tropical regions. It is also grown as a street tree and a shade tree in Florida.

Where is the U.S. government's 147-acre observation plot of S. mahagoni located, and since when has it been maintained?

The United States government has owned and maintained a 147-acre observation plot of secondary growth S. mahagoni at Estate Thomas on St. Croix, United States Virgin Islands, since 1954. This plot is managed jointly with the International Institute of Tropical Forestry.

What legal protections are in place for West Indian mahogany?

West Indian mahogany is protected by state, federal, and international conservation laws. It is nationally protected in both Cuba and the Dominican Republic, reflecting its conservation importance.

What does the Lacey Act of 1900 prohibit concerning plants sold in the United States?

The Lacey Act of 1900 prohibits the trade in plants that have been illegally taken, transported, or sold, and mandates a documented chain of possession for plant products sold within the United States. This law aims to prevent illegal wildlife and plant trafficking.

Under which appendix of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) is S. mahagoni listed?

S. mahagoni is listed in Appendix II of CITES, specifically concerning saw-logs, sawn wood, and veneers. This listing regulates international trade to ensure its sustainability.

What is the conservation status of S. mahagoni according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)?

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) classifies S. mahagoni as Near Threatened. This classification indicates that the species is close to qualifying for a threatened category in the near future.

How does NatureServe classify S. mahagoni in Florida?

NatureServe classifies S. mahagoni as Vulnerable in Florida. This designation highlights concerns about its population status within the state.

What is the conservation status of S. mahagoni in the Cayman Islands?

S. mahagoni is classified as Critically Endangered in the Cayman Islands according to national assessments. This severe status indicates a very high risk of extinction in the wild.

What is the conservation status of S. mahagoni in the Dominican Republic?

National assessments mark S. mahagoni as Vulnerable in the Dominican Republic. This classification suggests that the species faces a high risk of endangerment in this region.

What is the conservation status of S. mahagoni in Cuba?

S. mahagoni is listed as Least Concern in Cuba based on national assessments. This indicates that the species is currently abundant and not at immediate risk in Cuba.

What are some of the scientific synonyms listed for Swietenia mahagoni?

Some scientific synonyms for Swietenia mahagoni include Cedrela mahagoni, Swietenia acutifolia, Swietenia fabrilis, Swietenia mahogani, and Swietenia mahogoni. These represent different classifications or naming conventions used historically.

What publication served as the basis for Linnaeus's description of Cedrela mahagoni?

Linnaeus's description of Cedrela mahagoni, published in 1758, was based on Mark Catesby's 1729 work, The Natural History of Carolina, Florida, and the Bahama Islands, which included a plate and description of the mahogany tree. Catesby's work provided the foundational botanical details for the scientific naming.

Into which genus did Nikolaus Joseph von Jacquin reclassify the mahogany tree?

Nikolaus Joseph von Jacquin reclassified the mahogany tree into his newly created genus, Swietenia, in 1760. This classification remains the accepted scientific placement for the species today.

What specific honey bee pest is the subject of research into the acaricidal properties of Swietenia mahagoni?

The honey bee pest targeted by research into the acaricidal effects of Swietenia mahagoni leaves and bark is Varroa destructor. This research aims to find natural compounds effective against this damaging parasite.

What is the purpose of the 'Woodworking' navbox found in the article?

The 'Woodworking' navigation box provides links to related topics such as the history of wood carving, glossaries of woodworking terms, types of wood, woodworking occupations, tools, joints, profiles, treatments, organizations, conversion techniques, and general woodworking techniques. It serves as a navigational aid for exploring related subjects.

What kind of information is contained within the 'Taxon identifiers' navigation box?

The 'Taxon identifiers' navigation box lists various external databases and resources where more information about Swietenia mahagoni and its synonyms, like Cedrela mahagoni, can be found. These include links to Wikidata, GBIF, IUCN, ITIS, and many other specialized biological and taxonomic databases.

Swietenia Mahagoni Wiki: Mahogany's Majesty: The Enduring Legacy of Swietenia Mahagoni

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Defining True Mahogany

Botanical Identity

Swietenia mahagoni, commonly recognized as American mahogany, Cuban mahogany, small-leaved mahogany, and West Indian mahogany, is a species indigenous to the broader Caribbean bioregion and the southern reaches of Florida in the United States.^[1]

Historical Significance

This species is historically significant as the original source of what became known globally as mahogany wood, celebrated for its exceptional durability, rich color, and fine grain.^[5] It has been a cornerstone of fine woodworking for centuries.

Conservation Context

Due to extensive historical over-harvesting, Swietenia mahagoni is now classified as Near Threatened by the IUCN and Vulnerable by NatureServe.^[1]^[2] Its conservation is supported by various state, federal, and international regulations.

Geographic Origins

Native Range

The natural habitat of Swietenia mahagoni encompasses the islands of the West Indies, including the Bahamas, Cuba, Jamaica, and Hispaniola (comprising the Dominican Republic and Haiti). It is also native to South Florida, marking the northernmost extent of its distribution.^[1]

Introduced Regions

Beyond its native territories, the species has been widely introduced and cultivated across other Caribbean islands, adapting to various subtropical and tropical environments.

Florida Presence

In South Florida, individuals typically reach heights of 10 to 15 meters, contributing to the region's unique botanical landscape. Here, it is often utilized as an ornamental street or shade tree.^[22]

A Wood of Renown

Early Applications

The earliest recorded use of S. mahagoni dates back to 1514 for woodwork in Santo Domingo. Spanish explorers subsequently employed the wood for crafting canoes and undertaking ship repairs, recognizing its inherent strength and resilience.^[7]

Shipbuilding & Furniture

During the 18th century, mahogany became indispensable in shipbuilding across Europe, valued for its durability and resistance to splintering. Concurrently, it defined the golden age of British furniture making, becoming the preferred material for exquisite cabinetry and decorative pieces.^[10]

Modern & Niche Uses

Today, mahogany continues to be utilized in musical instruments, particularly guitars, drums, and marimbas, for its superior tonewood qualities. It also serves as an ornamental tree in landscaping and urban environments.^[18]

Botanical Attributes

Tree Structure

Swietenia mahagoni is a medium-sized, semi-evergreen tree capable of reaching heights of 30 to 35 meters (98 to 115 ft). Its bark transitions from smooth and grayish in youth to furrowed and darker with maturity.

Foliage and Fruit

The leaves are pinnate, measuring 12–25 cm in length, with four to eight leaflets each approximately 5–6 cm long. The tree produces small flowers in panicles, followed by woody capsules, 5–10 cm long, containing numerous winged seeds.^[4]

Resilience

In its native Florida habitat, the species is semi-deciduous, shedding leaves during winter or spring. Notably, S. mahagoni exhibits remarkable wind resistance, frequently surviving major hurricanes.^[21]

A Storied Past

Early Documentation

The historical record of mahogany use begins in the early 16th century, with applications in structures like the Basilica Cathedral of Santa María la Menor in Santo Domingo. Spanish explorers utilized it for ship repairs and construction, and it was later specified for the opulent El Escorial palace in Spain.^[7]^[8]

European Adoption

Mahogany's introduction to Europe marked a significant shift in furniture and shipbuilding. Its adoption for cabinet work in the UK began around 1724, leading to the celebrated "Age of Mahogany" in 18th-century British furniture design.^[10]

Botanical Classification

Initially described by Carl Linnaeus in 1758 as Cedrela mahagoni, the species was later reclassified into the genus Swietenia by Nikolaus Joseph von Jacquin in 1760, a classification that remains current.^[19]^[20]

Conservation and Protection

Over-harvesting Impact

The historical demand for mahogany led to significant over-harvesting, making supplies of the true Swietenia mahagoni rare. Consequently, much of the mahogany available in timber markets today originates from related species, often exhibiting lower wood quality.^[4]

Legal Safeguards

Swietenia mahagoni is subject to various conservation measures. It is protected nationally in Cuba and the Dominican Republic. Internationally, it is listed in CITES Appendix II, regulating trade in its logs, sawn wood, and veneers. The Lacey Act of 1900 also governs the trade of plant products in the United States.^[1]

Conservation Designations

The species holds several conservation statuses: IUCN classifies it as Near Threatened, while NatureServe designates it as Vulnerable. In Florida, it is legally protected under the Preservation of Native Flora of Florida Act as "Threatened."^[1]^[2]

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References

Bureau of Ships. Wood: a manual for its use in wooden vessels. Forest Products Lab., Bureau of Ships, Washington D.C. 1945. pp.229.

Rolf, R.A. The True Mahoganies. Bulletin of Miscellaneous Information. Vol. No. 4. 1919. p. 202. Kew Gardens. England.

United States Forest Service: Research Property: Estate Thomas

A full list of references for this article are available at the Swietenia mahagoni Wikipedia page

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Important Considerations

AI-Generated Content Notice

This page has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes exclusively. The content is derived from publicly available data and may not represent the most current or exhaustive information available.

This is not professional botanical or forestry advice. The information provided herein should not substitute consultation with qualified arborists, botanists, or forestry professionals. Always seek expert advice for specific applications or concerns related to plant identification, cultivation, or conservation.

The creators of this page assume no liability for any inaccuracies, omissions, or actions taken based on the information presented.

Mahogany's Majesty

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Defining True Mahogany 🌿

🏷️ Botanical Identity

📜 Historical Significance

⚖️ Conservation Context

Geographic Origins 🗺️

🏝️ Native Range

🌍 Introduced Regions

🌳 Florida Presence

A Wood of Renown 🪵

⚓ Early Applications

🏛️ Shipbuilding & Furniture

🎶 Modern & Niche Uses

Botanical Attributes 🍃

🌲 Tree Structure

🍂 Foliage and Fruit

💨 Resilience

A Storied Past 📜

⏳ Early Documentation

🇬🇧 European Adoption

📚 Botanical Classification

Conservation and Protection 🛡️

📉 Over-harvesting Impact

⚖️ Legal Safeguards

⭐ Conservation Designations

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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📜 References

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Important Considerations ⚠️

ℹ️ AI-Generated Content Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Defining True Mahogany

Botanical Identity

Historical Significance

Conservation Context

Geographic Origins

Native Range

Introduced Regions

Florida Presence

A Wood of Renown

Early Applications

Shipbuilding & Furniture

Modern & Niche Uses

Botanical Attributes

Tree Structure

Foliage and Fruit

Resilience

A Storied Past

Early Documentation

European Adoption

Botanical Classification

Conservation and Protection

Over-harvesting Impact

Legal Safeguards

Conservation Designations

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Important Considerations

AI-Generated Content Notice