Description

Chinese mahogany can reach heights of up to 40 metres, with a branchless trunk over 20 metres high and 1.5 metres in diameter. In Europe, it reaches 27 metres in height, with a trunk up to 70 centimetres in diameter. The grey bark is very rough and fluffy, made up of narrow vertical plates that often detach from the trunk. Pinnate leaves are 50 to 70 centimetres long. They often, but not always, lack a terminal leaflet. They give off a characteristic oniony smell. Flowering takes place in midsummer. The flowers are 4 to 5 millimetres in diameter, with five white or pale pink petals, and are fragrant.

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Origin

Chinese Mahogany is native to China, where it is widespread in mountainous and temperate regions. It also grows in other parts of East Asia, including Japan, Korea and Taiwan. Because of its beautiful silhouette and precious wood, it is also grown as an ornamental tree in many parts of the world.