Large-Leaved African Mahogany
Scientific name: Khaya grandifoliola
Overview
Large-Leaved African Mahogany is a large African forest tree whose reddish-brown timber is traded within the African mahogany group. It belongs to the Meliaceae family and is native to western tropical Africa east to northern Uganda. This profile brings together identification, woodworking, sourcing, and conservation notes for collectors and woodworkers.
The species grows primarily in wet tropical forest and riparian forest. Large trees may reach about 40 m; young foliage can be conspicuously reddish, and the compound leaves and relatively large capsules help distinguish it botanically. The heartwood is pinkish brown to reddish brown, usually darkening with exposure. Grain is straight to interlocked with medium to moderately coarse texture and occasional ribbon figure. Natural variation, age, cut, lighting, and finish can all change the appearance, so color alone should never be treated as a final identification.
Quick Facts
- Common Name: Large-Leaved African Mahogany
- Alternate Common Name(s): Broad-Leaved Mahogany, Benin Mahogany
- Scientific Name: Khaya grandifoliola
- Region: African Woods
- Tree Size: Typically 65–130 ft (20–40 m) tall
- Average Dried Weight: Approximately 36 lb/ft³ (575 kg/m³)
- Janka Hardness: Approximately 850 lbf (3,780 N)
- Grain: Usually straight to interlocked
- Texture: Medium to coarse
Identification Characteristics
Look for the combination of pinkish brown to reddish brown, usually darkening with exposure and straight to interlocked with medium to moderately coarse texture and occasional ribbon figure. Compare a freshly sanded face-grain surface with end grain under good light. Record provenance, supplier, and botanical name whenever possible, since related tropical species may overlap in color and figure.
- Heartwood and sapwood color boundary
- Pore size and distribution on clean end grain
- Direction of grain and any ribbon or mottled figure
- Texture, luster, weight, and odor when freshly worked
- Verified origin and trade documentation
Working Properties
Workability varies with density and grain direction. Straight-grained stock normally machines more cleanly, while interlocked or figured areas can tear during planing. Use sharp cutters, shallow passes, and controlled feed rates. Test unfamiliar stock before committing valuable boards to a final project.
- Pre-drill near edges and ends to reduce splitting.
- Use effective dust extraction during sawing, routing, sanding, and turning.
- Prepare clean joint surfaces and test the selected adhesive on an offcut.
- Sand progressively and remove torn fibers before finishing.
- Test clear, oil, and film finishes because color can deepen dramatically.
- Dry thick material gradually and store boards with even support and airflow.
Safety Note
Wood dust can irritate the eyes, skin, and respiratory system, and some people develop sensitivity after repeated exposure. Use local dust collection, eye protection, and a properly fitted respirator. Wash exposed skin after machining and keep workshop dust away from living areas.
Common Uses
Traditional and modern applications include fine furniture, cabinetry, doors, interior joinery, veneer, paneling, carving, turning, and protected boat interiors. Suitability depends on board quality, dryness, grain orientation, intended exposure, and the legality and traceability of the material.
Sustainability & Notes
Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List; African populations of Khaya are included in CITES Appendix II with annotation #17. Conservation categories and trade rules can change, and national controls may be stricter than international listings. Before purchasing, exporting, or importing material, verify the accepted botanical name, source country, harvest date, chain of custody, and any permits that apply.
Prefer reclaimed wood, plantation material where appropriate, independently certified stock, or inventory with a clear documented history. Use scarce timber efficiently and retain invoices and permits with collector samples.
Comparative Notes & Related Species
East African Mahogany (Khaya anthotheca) – A closely related Khaya with similar reddish-brown timber.
Senegal Mahogany (Khaya senegalensis) – A drier-region African mahogany that can overlap in trade naming.
Nyasaland Mahogany (Khaya nyasica) – A southeastern African relative requiring provenance for reliable separation.
Related Guides
- Wood Identification
- How to Identify Exotic Hardwood by Grain Pattern
- Wood Density & Janka Hardness Chart
- Understanding CITES & Protected Species
Compare Wood Properties
See how this species ranks in density and hardness using our Wood Density & Janka Hardness Chart. You can also explore Hardest Woods, Softest Woods, and Most Dense Woods for quick comparisons.
Collector Notes
Label each sample with the scientific name, common or trade name, source, purchase date, and documentation reference. Preserve a freshly sanded comparison area away from direct light because many woods darken over time. A useful reference sample shows both face grain and clean end grain.
Share Your Photos of This Species
Have a verified tree photograph, wood sample, board, or finished project? Visit the Share Your Photos Page and include the common name, scientific name if known, location, and a short description.
Wood Sample Collection
This species is part of our growing reference collection. Learn how to contribute at Donate Wood Samples.
Resources
- Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew – Plants of the World Online: Khaya grandifoliola
- IUCN Red List assessment for Khaya grandifoliola
- CITES Appendices
- USDA Forest Products Laboratory publications
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Availability & Where to Buy
Exotic hardwood availability can vary significantly depending on region, sustainability regulations, and supplier inventory.
As this archive grows, recommended suppliers and specialty wood retailers will be listed here to help woodworkers locate responsibly sourced material.
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