African Mahogany
Khaya spp. (often K. ivorensis) • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Interlocked grain producing a distinctive ribbon stripe figure when quarter-sawn. Texture is medium to coarse with a visible porous end-grain pattern.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from a pale pink to a deeper reddish brown, sometimes with streaks of medium to dark reddish brown. Luster is high with notable chatoyance; color tends to darken with age and exposure to light.
Hardness Rating
830 lbf (Soft to Medium)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable; offers some resistance to rot but is susceptible to insect attack. Poor choice for direct ground contact.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, boatbuilding, veneer, interior trim, and musical instruments (guitar bodies).
Geographic Origin
West, Central, and East Africa
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$7.00 - $12.00 per board foot depending on figure and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern sample, likely kiln-dried and recently surfaced based on the sharp edges and lack of deep oxidation or patina.
Sustainability Status
IUCN Red List: Vulnerable (Khaya ivorensis); widely available but subject to monitoring for sustainable harvest.
Workability
Generally easy to work with tools, though the interlocked grain can cause significant tearout during planing or surfacing if blades are not extremely sharp. Glues and finishes well.
Notable Features
Lacks a characteristic odor; contains high luster; fibers can be fuzzy if sanded with dull paper; known for its stability once dried.
Finish Recommendations
Responds excellently to oil-based finishes which enhance the depth of the ribbon grain; grain filler is recommended if a glass-smooth high-gloss finish is desired due to open pores.
Identification Confidence
High; the color tone, coarse texture, and the specific orientation of the growth rings and ribbon-like appearance on the face grain are classic indicators of African Mahogany.