Likely African mahogany; alternatives include sapele or another reddish tropical hardwood. Identification from color alone is tentative. — Likely Khaya spp.; sapele is Entandrophragma cylindricum.

Likely African mahogany; alternatives include sapele or another reddish tropical hardwood. Identification from color alone is tentative.

Likely Khaya spp.; sapele is Entandrophragma cylindricum. · Exotic/Tropical hardwood

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Exotic/Tropical hardwood
Origin
Likely tropical West or Central Africa; Khaya species range across sub-Saharan Africa.
Hardness
African mahogany: about 1,070 lbf, Medium; species and values vary.
Durability
Moderately durable; heartwood has some decay resistance, but resistance to insects and weathering varies by species and exposure.

Got a wood sample like this?

Identify any wood from a photo, free.

Identify wood

Grain Pattern

The visible face appears mostly straight-grained with mild variation; end grain is not visible, so cut and figure cannot be confirmed.

Color & Appearance

Muted reddish-brown heartwood with darker weathered areas; sapwood is not clearly distinguishable. Exposure and oxidation may deepen or brown the color.

Hardness (Janka)

African mahogany: about 1,070 lbf, Medium; species and values vary.

Durability & Decay Resistance

Moderately durable; heartwood has some decay resistance, but resistance to insects and weathering varies by species and exposure.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Roughly US$6–15 per board foot for common African mahogany, varying by species, grade, thickness, and location.

AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.

Wood Age Estimate
Cannot be reliably estimated from this image; surface staining and wear do not establish age.

Common Uses

Furniture, cabinetry, doors, interior trim, boatwork, veneer, and musical instruments.

Geographic Origin

Likely tropical West or Central Africa; Khaya species range across sub-Saharan Africa.

Workability

Generally machines and finishes well; sharp tools help limit tearout, especially with interlocked grain. Pre-drilling is useful for fasteners.

Finish Recommendations

Sand evenly and apply oil, shellac, lacquer, or polyurethane; test first, as color and absorption can vary.

Notable Features

Reddish color and moderate weight are consistent with mahogany-type woods; no scent or distinctive figure can be assessed here.

Learn more about Likely African mahogany; alternatives include sapele or another reddish tropical hardwood. Identification from color alone is tentative. in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified October 16, 2026