Balsa
Ochroma pyramidale • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, open, and coarse grain. No figure is present in this sample; it exhibits a flat-sawn appearance with distinct longitudinal vessel lines.
Color Description
Off-white to pale reddish-brown heartwood with almost white sapwood. It has a low luster and can yellowish or tan slightly with age and light exposure.
Hardness Rating
88 lbf (Very Soft)
Durability Rating
Non-durable; very susceptible to rot, decay, and insect attack.
Common Uses
Model building, insulation, packing materials, flotation devices, surfboards, and core material for sandwich structures.
Geographic Origin
Native to Southern Mexico to Southern Brazil; most commercial supply is plantation-grown in Ecuador.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $15.00 per board foot (often sold by smaller Hobby blocks).
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled (less than 1 year); bright color and lack of oxidation suggest a new commercial board.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; highly sustainable due to rapid growth and extensive plantation farming.
Workability
Extremely easy to work but requires very sharp tools to avoid crushing fibers. Sanding is effortless, but gluing can be tricky as the wood is highly absorbent.
Notable Features
Exceptionally lightweight and buoyant; one of the lightest commercial woods. It consists of large, thin-walled cells that contribute to its unique strength-to-weight ratio.
Finish Recommendations
Usually left unfinished or sealed with a sanding sealer. Takes glue well, but finishes can be absorbed unevenly; cellulose or polyurethane sprays are common for models.
Identification Confidence
High. The distinct open pores, pale white-tan color, very low density appearance, and fuzzy surface texture from rough milling are classic indicators of Balsa.