Monkeypod (also known as Samanea, Rain Tree, or Suar)
Samanea saman · Exotic/Tropical
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical
- Origin
- Central and South America; widely introduced and naturalized throughout the tropics including Hawaii and Southeast Asia.
- Hardness
- 900 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable to Durable, with good resistance to dry-wood termites but susceptible to other insects.
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Grain Pattern
Interlocked to wavy grain with a medium to coarse texture, exhibiting dramatic streaking and figured patterns.
Color & Appearance
Striking contrast with rich golden-brown to dark chocolate heartwood, often accented with dramatic blackish-brown streaks, and a distinct pale yellowish-white sapwood. It possesses a natural medium to high luster.
Hardness (Janka)
900 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable to Durable, with good resistance to dry-wood termites but susceptible to other insects.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 8.00 to 15.00 USD per board foot for domestic retail slabs, varying by size and figure.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Kiln-dried lumber recently prepared, estimated to be under 5 years since milling based on fresh surface conditions.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices and generally not threatened, frequently harvested from managed or fallen trees in tropical regions.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, live-edge slabs, turning, carving, cabinetry, and architectural millwork.
Geographic Origin
Central and South America; widely introduced and naturalized throughout the tropics including Hawaii and Southeast Asia.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though interlocked grain can cause tearout during planing. Glues and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil finishes, polyurethane, and lacquer exceptionally well, enhancing the deep contrast of the dark heartwood and lighter streaks.
Notable Features
Features distinct open pores, excellent dimensional stability once dry, and stunning natural color variation making it popular for live-edge woodworking.