Mahogany (Honduran / Central American)
Swietenia macrophylla · Hardwood / Exotic
- Type
- Hardwood / Exotic
- Origin
- Native to Southern Mexico, Central America, and tropical South America; widely cultivated on plantations in Tropical Asia.
- Hardness
- 900 lbf (Medium Hardness)
- Durability
- Durable. Highly resistant to decay, rot, and fungal attack; moderately resistant to dry-wood termites.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly interlocked grain showing characteristic fine ray flecks, ribbon stripe patterns, and medium diffuse-porous texture typical of quartersawn or rift-cut tropical mahogany.
Color & Appearance
Warm reddish-brown to medium golden-tan heartwood with moderate natural luster and fine chatoyance. Tends to darken with UV exposure over time into a deeper golden-auburn color.
Hardness (Janka)
900 lbf (Medium Hardness)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable. Highly resistant to decay, rot, and fungal attack; moderately resistant to dry-wood termites.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $12.00 to $18.00 per board foot depending on figure quality, width, and FSC certification.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern processing, likely 1–10 years old; shows smooth finish cuts with minimal oxidation.
- Sustainability Status
- CITES Appendix II listed; classified as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List due to historical over-logging. FSC-certified plantation material is available.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, boat building, acoustic guitar backs/sides and necks, architectural millwork, turnings, and decorative veneers.
Geographic Origin
Native to Southern Mexico, Central America, and tropical South America; widely cultivated on plantations in Tropical Asia.
Workability
Exceptional workability; planes smoothly, sands cleanly, holds edges well, glues and finishes easily without significant tearout unless heavily figure-grained.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts all finishes exceptionally well. Paste wood filler can be used to achieve a high-gloss glass finish; excels with clear oils, lacquer, or traditional French polish shellac.
Notable Features
Distinctive fine vessel lines, faint pleasant aromatic odor when freshly cut, excellent dimensional stability with minimal shrinking or swelling.
