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Khaya Anthotheca (Red Mahogany) (Mwawa/Mululu)

Evergreen or semi-evergreen, up to 30m tall. Grows best in deep well-drained soils but can withstand seasonal flooding. Fast growing, large glossy green leaves turn beautiful red colour at the end of August. Woody capsules split to release seed.

Bark tastes like quinine and infusion of the bark is used to treat colds.

Oil from seeds used to treat head lice and also used as a body oil. Infusion of seeds and bark produces a dye.

Produces, fine pinkish-brown hardwood, used to make quality furniture, also for canoes as the wood does not rot easily. Also used to make carvings and ornaments.

Species treated with great respect in Eastern Province with names sometimes being given to individual trees.

Indigenous Tree


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