Big Leaf Mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla)

Family: Meliaceae | Edibility: Edible (1/5)

Swietenia macrophylla, otherwise known as Big Leaf Mahogany or Honduras Mahogany, is a slow-growing, tall, tropical tree reaching a height of about 40-60 m. Often buttressed, the trunk is covered with gray and cracked bark. The crown is large, open, and round. The bole is straight, cylindrical, buttressed, and can be up to 120 cm in diameter. The leaves are compound. The flowers are small, white or green, and form into clusters.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

None known. — Harvested fresh in season according to PFAF botanical monograph.

Habitat & North American Range

Found in all forest types, from the edge of the pine savannah to the climax rainforest, but mostly in mixed hardwood forest belts, along riverbanks, on deep alluvial soils of considerable fertility. (Zone 10)