Natal Mahogany

Natal Mahogany Care

Trichilia Emetica

What is the plant

The Natal Mahogany is a fast-growing, evergreen leafy tree mostly cultivated for its foliage. It has glossy green leaves, which will be a great decoration. Natal Mahogany is a rather unusual plant to grow indoors. However, don't let that stop you! It is not that hard to take care of.

Natal Mahogany can grow up to 63 inches (25 m) high. It has glossy roundish leaves with slightly pointed tips. Trichilia produces light-green fragrant flowers. The fruits emerge in capsules, and the seeds grow in small red aril envelopes.

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Humidity

Normal

Lighting

Part Sun

Temperature

7°C - 18°C

Hardiness zone

10 - 11

Difficulty

Medium

Hibernation

Cold Period

Toxicity

Poisonous

How to Care for the Plant

Water
Water your green pet consistently but watch out for excess moisture! Keep the soil moist at all times but don't waterlog it. The best way to check if your plant is thirsty is by touching the topsoil. On average, your Mahogany tree will need a sip once a week under moderate lighting. The darker your room is, the less liquid your plant needs.
Pruning
Pruning is a must! Some trimming will help the beautiful crown of your Trichilia to grow faster.
Fertilizer
Organic houseplant fertilizer is a good choice. Feed the plant once a month during the fall and winter. During spring and summer, you can fertilize your Natal Mahogany every other week.

Disease diagnosis

Check your plant’s health

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Sunlight
Avoid direct light; this will cause the leaves to fall! As mentioned above, Natal Mahogany is used to growing in some shade. Your best bet is to put your green pet next to an east-facing window.
Soil
Peat soil is a good fit due to its high moisture retention. Your tree will enjoy well-drained and porous growing mediums with high mineral content.
Propagation
To propagate your plant, push the seeds into well-moistured soil and keep them in a shady spot. In a couple of weeks, the seeds of your Mahogany will begin to grow roots.

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Temperature
The perfect temperature range for Trichilia emetica is 64-79˚F (18-27°C). This sturdy leafy beauty can actually survive temperatures as low as 45°F (7.2°C)!
Container
This tree usually needs a pot of 10 inches (25 cm) or larger. It usually must be repotted into a larger container every 18-24 months. Preferably, you should transplant your Mahogany in spring or summer. Each new pot should be 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) larger than the previous one.
Fun fact
Natal Mahogany received its name from the coastal province of KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa, where it grows in damp areas like riverbeds and tropical forests.