NAME: Ekebergia senegalensis

FAMILY: Meliaceae

COMMON NAMES: Senegal Mahogany, African Mahogany, Nargustan

LOCAL NAMES: Akomfem (Ghana), Irosun (Nigeria), Azim (Senegal), Mvule (Uganda)

MORPHOLOGICAL DESCRIPTION: Ekebergia senegalensis is a medium-sized to large deciduous tree that can reach heights of up to 25 meters. It has a straight trunk with a grayish-brown bark that becomes rough and fissured with age. The leaves are compound, alternate, and pinnate, consisting of several leaflets arranged along a central axis. The leaflets are dark green, elliptical in shape, and have serrated margins. Ekebergia senegalensis produces small, fragrant white flowers that are arranged in panicles. The tree bears oval-shaped fruits that contain a single seed.

USEFUL PART(s): The bark, leaves, fruits, and seeds of Ekebergia senegalensis have various uses.

GENERAL USES:

Timber: Ekebergia senegalensis is highly valued for its timber, which is often referred to as African Mahogany. The wood is durable, resistant to rot and insect attacks, and has a beautiful reddish-brown color. It is used in the construction of furniture, cabinetry, flooring, and other high-quality wooden products.
Medicinal Applications: Different parts of Ekebergia senegalensis have traditional medicinal uses in various African countries. The bark and leaves are used in remedies for fever, malaria, stomach ailments, and skin conditions. The seeds are employed in treatments for gastrointestinal disorders.
Cultural and Ritual Purposes: In some African cultures, Ekebergia senegalensis is regarded as a sacred tree and plays a significant role in rituals and ceremonies. It is often associated with spiritual and protective qualities.

GEOGRAPHIC DISTRIBUTION: Ekebergia senegalensis is native to sub-Saharan Africa and can be found in countries such as Senegal, Nigeria, Ghana, Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania. It thrives in diverse habitats, including savannahs, woodlands, and gallery forests.

WHY IS IT GREEN? The green color of Ekebergia senegalensis, like all plants, is due to the presence of chlorophyll. Chlorophyll is a pigment found in the chloroplasts of plant cells and is essential for photosynthesis. It absorbs sunlight, particularly in the red and blue regions of the electromagnetic spectrum, and uses this energy to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen during photosynthesis.

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT: Ekebergia senegalensis is considered a valuable tree species with positive environmental impacts. It provides shade and habitat for various wildlife species, including birds and insects. The tree also contributes to soil fertility through leaf litter decomposition and nutrient cycling.

FUN FACT: In some African folklore, Ekebergia senegalensis is associated with mystical powers and is believed to have the ability to ward off evil spirits. Its wood is sometimes used to carve protective talismans and amulets.