Khaya (African Mahogany)

The Khaya genus has just a few species, all of which are endemic to Africa. In the Swietenia genus, it sometimes lacks the deeper reddish-brown colour and durability that real mahogany has. Khaya belongs to the Meliaceae family of plants, which contains not only mahoganies but also Sapele (Entandrophragma cylindricum) and a slew of other commercial species. Veneer, plywood, turned objects, furniture, boatbuilding, and interior trim are uses of Honduran Mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla), sometimes known as “Genuine Mahogany.”

Various timber sizes, as well as plywood and veneer, are readily accessible. For imported hardwood, prices are modest to moderate.

The hue of the heartwood varies, ranging from very light pink to a darker reddish-brown, with medium to dark reddish-brown streaks. With time, the colour darkens. Ribbon-stripe patterns can emerge on quartersawn surfaces.