Mango Wood
Mangifera indica · Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Origin
- Native to South Asia (India/Myanmar); widely cultivated in tropical regions including Southeast Asia, Hawaii, and parts of Africa.
- Hardness
- 1,070 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable; susceptible to fungal attack and insects if not properly finished or treated.
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Grain Pattern
Highly irregular and interlocked grain with curly and wavy figure; features significant chatoyance and occasional spalting streaks.
Color & Appearance
Golden brown heartwood with streaks of pink, yellow, and black; creamy white sapwood. It typically darkens slightly and develops a richer luster with age.
Hardness (Janka)
1,070 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable; susceptible to fungal attack and insects if not properly finished or treated.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $10.00 - $20.00 per board foot depending on figure and spalting level.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Finished product appears to be modern (under 10 years) based on the hardware and sheen, though the tree itself was likely 20-30 years old at harvest.
- Sustainability Status
- Highly sustainable; often a byproduct of the fruit industry once trees stop producing fruit (not CITES listed).
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, bowls, veneers, and musical instruments (ukuleles/guitars).
Geographic Origin
Native to South Asia (India/Myanmar); widely cultivated in tropical regions including Southeast Asia, Hawaii, and parts of Africa.
Workability
Fairly easy to work, though interlocked grain can cause tearout during planing. Glues and finishes very well.
Finish Recommendations
High-gloss polyurethane or lacquer (as seen in the photo) to highlight the chatoyance, or natural oils to emphasize the warmth of the grain.
Notable Features
Often displays unique spalting patterns; known for having a high density for a fruitwood and can have a distinct, slightly sweet scent when cut.
