Swietenia macrophylla, commonly known as Big-Leaf Mahogany, is a deciduous tree native to the rainforests of Central and South America, as well as parts of Mexico. It is a slow-growing species that can reach up to 148 feet (45 meters) in height, with a straight, cylindrical trunk that can be impressively wide. The tree is characterized by its large, pinnate leaves that can be up to 20 inches long, and its small, fragrant white flowers that bloom intermittently throughout the year. The flowers are followed by distinctive, upward-growing fruit capsules that split open to release numerous winged seeds. The bark is dark grey and scaly, providing a striking contrast to the foliage.

Big-Leaf Mahogany is highly valued for its reddish-brown, straight-grained wood, which is known for its durability, resistance to rot, and workability, making it a premier material for high-quality furniture, cabinetry, musical instruments, and boat building. In cultivation, it requires a warm, humid climate with well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. While it is not commonly grown in home gardens due to its large size, it is sometimes planted in botanical gardens and arboreta. Care should be taken as it is potentially invasive in some non-native areas, and its cultivation outside its native range should be approached with caution.CC BY-SA 4.0