African Blackwood

Dalbergia melanoxylon, Fabaceae

Zones

10–12

Layer

Understory

Lifespan

Perennial

Growth

Slow

Guild Roles

ProducerNitrogen FixerWindbreakShade Provider

Growing Conditions

Sun

Full Sun (preferred)Partial Shade (tolerated)

Water

Low (established)Moderate (seedling)

Soil pH

6 – 8.5

Tolerances

Drought

Frost

Heat

Pest Resistance

Disease Resist.

Companion Plants

Purple TephrosiaTephrosia purpurea

Nitrogen Fixation

White SirisAlbizia procera

Nitrogen FixationBeneficial Insect Habitat

Velvet TamarindAntidesma velutinosum

Shade ProvisionBeneficial Insect Habitat

Natal MahoganyTrichilia emetica

Shade ProvisionBeneficial Insect Habitat

Antagonistic Plants

KaranjaPongamia pinnata

Both produce secondary metabolites and have extensive root systems leading to chemical and physical competition

Ethiopian FrankincenseBoswellia papyrifera

Both produce strong aromatic/chemical compounds that can inhibit nearby woody species

Uses

Functions

Timber ProductionErosion ControlWildlife HabitatCarbon Sequestration

Medicinal Uses

Wound HealingAntimicrobial

Common Questions

What zones does African Blackwood grow in?

African Blackwood grows in USDA hardiness zones 10 through 12.

Is African Blackwood a nitrogen fixer?

Yes, African Blackwood is a nitrogen fixer and can help provide nitrogen to neighboring plants in a guild or polyculture.

What are good companion plants for African Blackwood?

Good companions for African Blackwood include Purple Tephrosia, White Siris, Velvet Tamarind, Natal Mahogany.

Design guilds with African Blackwood and see companion relationships visually.

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