Teak (or alternative Brazilian Cherry / Jatoba)
Tectona grandis (or Hymenaea courbaril) · Hardwood / Exotic/Tropical
- Type
- Hardwood / Exotic/Tropical
- Origin
- Native to South and Southeast Asia (India, Myanmar, Thailand); widely cultivated in tropical plantations in Central/South America and Africa
- Hardness
- 1,070 lbf (Medium - Teak) to 2,350 lbf (Very Hard - Jatoba)
- Durability
- Very Durable. Exceptional resistance to rot, fungal decay, moisture, and insect attack due to natural oils and silica content
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy grain with distinct flat-sawn cathedral patterns, coarse texture, and prominent annual growth ring figure
Color & Appearance
Rich golden-brown to warm reddish-brown heartwood with dark brown to near-black streaks. Displays natural oily luster and darkens gracefully with light exposure
Hardness (Janka)
1,070 lbf (Medium - Teak) to 2,350 lbf (Very Hard - Jatoba)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable. Exceptional resistance to rot, fungal decay, moisture, and insect attack due to natural oils and silica content
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $25.00 - $35.00 per board foot for premium grade heartwood
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern cut piece, likely harvested within the last 5-15 years based on modern fine-sanding finish, fresh oil finish, and hand-written maker marks dating '2022'
- Sustainability Status
- IUCN endangered in wild habitats due to historical over-logging; widely available and sustainable from FSC-certified tropical plantations
Common Uses
Boat building, marine decking, high-end outdoor furniture, fine indoor cabinetry, flooring, decorative cutting boards, and architectural millwork
Geographic Origin
Native to South and Southeast Asia (India, Myanmar, Thailand); widely cultivated in tropical plantations in Central/South America and Africa
Workability
Fairly workable with sharp carbide-tipped hand and machine tools, though high natural silica content dulls cutting edges rapidly. Takes glues well if surface oils are wiped with acetone prior to bonding
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating Teak oil, Danish oil, or food-safe mineral oil and beeswax blends. Solvent-wipe with acetone before applying film finishes like polyurethane or varnish
Notable Features
High natural oil and resin content, distinctly leather-like scent when freshly worked, cool tactile feel, excellent dimensional stability under varying humidity
