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Dalbergia melanoxylon
African-blackwood
Dalbergia melanoxylon
Dalbergia melanoxylon, also known as African Blackwood, is a medium-sized to large tree, reaching heights of up to 25 meters. It's known for its extremely dense, dark heartwood, highly valued for musical instrument making (clarinets, oboes, flutes), high-quality furniture, and other fine woodworking applications. The tree has a slow growth rate and is drought-tolerant once established. It is a valuable but endangered species due to overharvesting.
CategoryDetails
Plant TypePerennial plant
Duration to maturity10 years to harvest
Estimated Plant Lifespan50 years lifespan
Sun Requirements6+ hours direct sunlight (Full Sun)
Legal StatusIs a controlled substance/plant
Pollination

Method: Insect pollination

Watering Requirements

Method: Drip irrigation or deep watering

Frequency: Infrequent, once established; water deeply during dry periods.

Notes: Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.

Humidity Requirements

Level: Low to moderate

Cleaning RequirementsProtect young saplings from direct intense sunlight and frost. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot. Regular pruning can be beneficial for shaping and maintaining health.
Temperature Range

Min: 10°C

Max: 35°C

Vachellia tortilis
umbrella thorn
Vachellia tortilis
Both species are adapted to arid and semi-arid conditions, and their root systems may complement each other in nutrient uptake and water access.
Commiphora africana
Hairy Corkwood
Commiphora africana
These species often co-occur in similar habitats and might benefit from similar soil conditions and sunlight requirements.
Anonychium africanum
Anonychium africanum

Both are fast-growing trees that compete for the same resources (water, nutrients, sunlight), potentially hindering the growth and development of African Blackwood.

Vachellia nilotica
Egyptian acacia
Vachellia nilotica

Similar to Prosopis africana, this species competes for resources, potentially leading to stunted growth or reduced wood quality in Dalbergia melanoxylon.

Wood borers

Various species of wood-boring insects can infest the wood, damaging its structural integrity and reducing its value. Symptoms include exit holes in the wood, sawdust-like frass, and potentially wilting or dieback of branches.

Leaf-eating insects

Caterpillars and other insects may feed on the leaves, causing defoliation and potentially affecting the tree's overall health and growth. Symptoms include loss of leaves and visible insect damage.

Steps:

    • Collect mature seeds from ripe pods.
    • Remove the seeds from the pods and clean them.
    • Soak the seeds in warm water for 24 hours to improve germination.
    • Sow the seeds in well-drained potting mix.
    • Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
    • Germination typically takes several weeks to months.

Neem oil

Natural insecticide effective against various pests.

Compost

Provides essential nutrients for healthy growth.