Ebony trees typically take between 40 to 60 years to reach maturity. This extended period is due to the slow growth rate of the species, which is a characteristic of many valuable hardwood trees. The slow growth allows the wood to develop the dense, hard, and durable qualities that make ebony highly sought after for musical instruments, furniture, and other high-quality wood products. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), the slow growth rate of ebony trees is a result of their deep root systems and the species' adaptation to tropical and subtropical climates, where they are native. These trees require a long period to accumulate the necessary resources to produce the large, heavy fruits that are essential for their reproduction. The combination of these factors contributes to the long maturation time of ebony trees.