African Mahogany (or potentially Sapele)
Khaya ivorensis · Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Origin
- Tropical West Africa
- Hardness
- 830 lbf (Soft to Medium)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable to Durable, with good resistance to rot and moderate resistance to marine borers and termites
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Grain Pattern
Interlocked to straight grain with a prominent flat-sawn cathedral pattern visible on the face
Color & Appearance
Reddish-brown to pinkish-red heartwood with pale yellowish or whitish sapwood. Color tends to darken to a deeper reddish-brown over time with exposure to light, displaying a moderate natural luster.
Hardness (Janka)
830 lbf (Soft to Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable to Durable, with good resistance to rot and moderate resistance to marine borers and termites
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $6.00 to $10.00 per board foot (domestic US retail)
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively fresh-cut or recently milled lumber, estimated under 5 years old based on minimal surface oxidation and clean edges
- Sustainability Status
- Listed on the IUCN Red List as vulnerable due to over-harvesting in its native range; FSC certified sources are increasingly available
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, interior millwork, boat building, musical instruments, and rotary-cut veneer
Geographic Origin
Tropical West Africa
Workability
Generally excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Glues, stains, and finishes very well, though interlocked grain can sometimes cause tearout during planing if cutting angles are not adjusted
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, oils, lacquers, and varnishes exceptionally well. A sanding sealer can help achieve a very smooth, glass-like finish on open pores
Notable Features
Features a distinct ribbon-like chatoyance when quarter-sawn; has a moderate natural luster and stable dimensional properties once dried
