Balsa
Ochroma pyramidale · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Tropical regions of Central and South America, widely cultivated in plantations throughout the tropics.
- Hardness
- 100 lbf (Very Soft)
- Durability
- Non-durable, highly susceptible to fungal decay and powderpost beetle attacks if left unprotected.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a coarse, open texture and minimal visible growth ring distinction.
Color & Appearance
Pale white to light tan or oatmeal color, often with a slight pinkish or yellowish hue. Very low luster and minimal color variation between sapwood and heartwood.
Hardness (Janka)
100 lbf (Very Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable, highly susceptible to fungal decay and powderpost beetle attacks if left unprotected.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- Moderately high per board foot due to specialized lightweight grade, roughly $8.00 to $15.00 per board foot depending on density.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Freshly milled or recently harvested young plantation tree, approximately 5 to 8 years old.
- Sustainability Status
- Highly sustainable due to extremely fast growth rates (trees reach harvest size in under 10 years), widely available from plantation growth with no CITES restrictions.
Common Uses
Model making, aeromodeling, core material in composite panels, surfboards, lightweight craft, and packaging.
Geographic Origin
Tropical regions of Central and South America, widely cultivated in plantations throughout the tropics.
Workability
Extremely easy to cut, shape, and carve with basic hand tools and utility knives, though it requires very sharp blades to avoid fuzzy cuts rather than clean slicing due to its extreme softness.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts thin sanding sealers, lacquers, and dopes well. Care must be taken not to oversaturate with heavy finishes which add unnecessary weight.
Notable Features
Remarkably lightweight with an exceptionally low density-to-strength ratio, spongy texture, and excellent thermal and acoustic insulation properties.
