African Mahogany
Khaya ivorensis · Exotic/Tropical
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical
- Origin
- Tropical West Africa
- Hardness
- 830 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable to Durable; resistant to marine borers and moderately resistant to decay, though vulnerable to some insect attacks.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Interlocked grain with a medium texture and moderate natural luster, showing a fairly straight to slightly wavy pattern typical of flat-sawn African hardwoods.
Color & Appearance
Reddish-brown to pinkish-brown heartwood that tends to darken significantly to a deeper reddish-brown over time with exposure to light. The sapwood is a distinct pale yellowish-white.
Hardness (Janka)
830 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable to Durable; resistant to marine borers and moderately resistant to decay, though vulnerable to some insect attacks.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $6.00 to $10.00 per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be freshly milled to moderately aged (within the last few years), showing standard oxidation and mill marks.
- Sustainability Status
- Listed on the IUCN Red List as vulnerable due to over-harvesting; not CITES listed, but certified sustainably managed sources (FSC) should be verified.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, boat building, interior trim, veneer, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Tropical West Africa
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though the interlocked grain can cause some tearout during planing. Glues, stains, and finishes very well.
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil, varnish, lacquer, and polyurethane exceptionally well. Grain filler may be desired for a perfectly smooth, glass-like finish.
Notable Features
Exhibits a characteristic ribbon stripe figure when quarter-sawn, with good dimensional stability and a moderate weight.
