majagua

noun

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ma·ja·gua

variants: or mahagua \ məˈhägwə \

plural -s

Definition of majagua

: either of two malvaceous trees that are often considered variant forms of a single species:

a : an irregularly spreading or shrubby tree (Hibiscus tiliaceus) that is widely distributed along tropical shores, yields a light tough wood used especially for canoe outriggers and a fibrous bast used for cordage and caulking, and is often cultivated for ornament or for its useful products

— called also balibago, purau

b : an erect forest tree (H. elatus) of the West Indian uplands yielding a moderately dense timber with the heartwood variegated in purple, metallic blue, and olive that is in demand especially for cabinetwork and gunstocks

— called also blue mahoe