majagua
Noun: 1. A tropical tree (Hibiscus tiliaceus), also commonly known as the sea hibiscus or mahoe, widely distributed along tropical shores. It yields a light, tough wood used for canoe outriggers and a fibrous bark used for cordage and caulk. It is often cultivated for its ornamental yellow flowers. 2. An erect forest tree of Cuba and Jamaica (Talipariti elatum, syn. Hibiscus elatus) having variably hairy leaves and orange-yellow or orange-red flowers. It yields a moderately dense timber valued for cabinetwork and gunstocks.
- Noun:
- The majagua's tough wood is ideal for building outriggers for traditional canoes.
- Fibers from the majagua bark were traditionally used to make strong ropes and caulk boats.
- The cabinet was crafted from the fine timber of the Cuban majagua tree.
- Many gardens in the tropics feature the ornamental majagua for its beautiful flowers.
- Botanical Context: The term "majagua" can refer to two distinct but related species within the (mallow) family, distinguished by their specific habitats and uses. Context often clarifies which species is meant.
- Cultural/Historical Usage: In many tropical coastal communities, the majagua is historically significant as a source of practical materials for boat-building and fishing gear.
- Sea Hibiscus: A common name for , emphasizing its coastal habitat and relation to the hibiscus genus.
- Mahoe: Another widely used common name for both and related species.
- Blue Mahoe: Specifically refers to (the Cuban/Jamaican timber tree), named for the bluish-green tint of its finished wood.
- Hibiscus tree (general)
- Beach hibiscus (for the coastal species)
The word "majagua" has two primary botanical meanings: 1. A coastal shrub/tree (Hibiscus tiliaceus) valued for its fiber and lightweight wood. 2. A forest tree (Talipariti elatum) from the Caribbean islands, prized for its denser, high-quality timber. Both are flowering trees in the same plant family. The intended meaning is typically derived from the geographical or usage context (e.g., "coastal fiber" vs. "Cuban timber").
- erect forest tree of Cuba and Jamaica having variably hairy leaves and orange-yellow or orange-red flowers; yields a moderately dense timber for cabinetwork and gunstocks
- shrubby tree widely distributed along tropical shores; yields a light tough wood used for canoe outriggers and a fiber used for cordage and caulk; often cultivated for ornament