Likely Brazilian cherry (Jatobá); alternatives include Santos mahogany or reddish oak. — Hymenaea courbaril

Likely Brazilian cherry (Jatobá); alternatives include Santos mahogany or reddish oak.

Hymenaea courbaril · Hardwood; exotic/tropical.

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood; exotic/tropical.
Origin
Tropical Central and South America, especially Brazil and neighboring regions.
Hardness
2,690 lbf Janka—Extremely Hard.
Durability
Very Durable; heartwood generally resists decay, insects, and weathering well.

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Grain Pattern

Mostly straight to interlocked, with occasional wavy streaking and cathedral-like flatsawn figure; flooring strips appear mixed-cut.

Color & Appearance

Fresh heartwood is salmon-orange to reddish brown, darkening substantially to russet or deep brown with age and light. Sapwood is paler; moderate natural luster is visible.

Hardness (Janka)

2,690 lbf Janka—Extremely Hard.

Durability & Decay Resistance

Very Durable; heartwood generally resists decay, insects, and weathering well.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Approximately $8–$16 per board foot retail for clear new stock; reclaimed flooring varies widely.

AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.

Wood Age Estimate
The flooring appears installed and finish-worn, but visible patina cannot reliably establish tree or installation age; likely several decades old.

Common Uses

Premium flooring, furniture, cabinetry, turnings, heavy construction, and tool handles.

Geographic Origin

Tropical Central and South America, especially Brazil and neighboring regions.

Workability

Very hard and abrasive; machines cleanly with sharp tooling but may cause edge dulling and occasional tearout. Pre-drilling is recommended; gluing and finishing are generally straightforward.

Finish Recommendations

Lightly abrade and use a compatible flooring polyurethane or hardwax oil; test first because darkening and uneven absorption can occur.

Notable Features

Heavy, dense wood with pronounced color change, attractive striping, and good wear resistance; the image shows repeated flooring-grade pieces rather than one solid sample.

Learn more about Likely Brazilian cherry (Jatobá); alternatives include Santos mahogany or reddish oak. in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 6, 2026