African Mahogany
Khaya ivorensis · Exotic/Tropical
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical
- Origin
- Tropical West Africa
- Hardness
- 830 lbf (Soft to Medium)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable to Durable; resistant to rot but susceptible to powder-post beetles and termites.
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Grain Pattern
Interlocked to straight grain with a medium to coarse texture; exhibits a characteristic ribbon or stripe figure when quarter-sawn.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood varies from a pale pinkish-brown to a deeper reddish-brown, darkening considerably with age and light exposure. Sapwood is a distinct lighter yellowish-white. Medium natural luster.
Hardness (Janka)
830 lbf (Soft to Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable to Durable; resistant to rot but susceptible to powder-post beetles and termites.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 6.00 to 12.00 USD per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated at 1 to 5 years (kiln-dried commercial lumber with light surface oxidation and minor machining marks)
- Sustainability Status
- Listed on the IUCN Red List as Vulnerable due to over-harvesting; not CITES listed, but sustainable forestry and FSC-certified options are increasingly limited.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, boat building, interior millwork, musical instruments, veneer, and turnery.
Geographic Origin
Tropical West Africa
Workability
Generally excellent workability; easy to saw, plane, glue, and finish, though interlocked grain can sometimes cause tearout during planing that requires a reduced cutting angle.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains, oils, and lacquers exceptionally well. Pore filler is often recommended for a perfectly smooth glass-like finish due to the open grain structure.
Notable Features
Contains natural silica which can dull cutting edges moderately quickly; possesses a characteristic pleasant scent when freshly cut; good dimensional stability.
