mahoe

• Sustantivo que designa un arbusto o árbol costero tropical, apreciado por su madera ligera y resistente, usada para estabilizadores de canoas, y por su fibra para cuerdas y calafateo; también un árbol forestal de Cuba y Jamaica con hojas variablemente vellosas y flores anaranjadas o rojas, cuya madera de densidad media se emplea en ebanistería y culatas de armas.

A noun referring to a shrubby tree that grows along tropical shores, valued for its light tough wood used in canoe outriggers and fiber for cordage and caulk; also an erect forest tree of Cuba and Jamaica with variably hairy leaves and orange-red flowers, yielding moderately dense timber for cabinetwork and gunstocks.

1. Coastal tropical treeB2formalscientific

   A tropical shrub or small tree found along ocean shores, valued for its lightweight yet strong wood used for canoe outriggers and its fiber for making ropes and caulking.

   Majagua costera

   • The mahoe tree grows abundantly on tropical coastlines.
   • Boat builders use mahoe wood for outriggers because it is light and strong.
   • Traditionally, mahoe fibers were twisted into cordage for fishing nets.
   • This ornamental tree is often planted in coastal gardens.

2. Caribbean hardwood treeB2formalscientific

   A tall forest tree native to Cuba and Jamaica, with hairy leaves and clusters of orange-yellow to orange-red flowers; it produces a moderately dense timber used for fine furniture and gun stocks.

   Árbol de caoba de las Antillas

   • Mahoe timber is prized by Cuban carpenters for making elegant cabinets.
   • The mahoe's bright flowers are a common sight in Jamaican mountain forests.
   • Gunstock makers seek mahoe wood for its strength and fine grain.
   • The leaves of the mahoe tree are covered with small hairs.