Mahogany (likely African or Philippine/Luan)
Khaya spp. or Shorea spp. · Hardwood / Exotic
- Type
- Hardwood / Exotic
- Origin
- West and Central Africa (Khaya) or Southeast Asia (Shorea)
- Hardness
- 830 - 1,070 lbf (Soft to Medium)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable; offers some resistance to rot but susceptible to insect attack without treatment.
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Grain Pattern
Interlocked, wavy, and ribbon-like grain; moderately coarse texture with visible vessel lines
Color & Appearance
Medium reddish-brown heartwood with cream-colored sapwood. Natural luster is moderate; wood typically darkens to a deep reddish-brown over time with UV exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
830 - 1,070 lbf (Soft to Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable; offers some resistance to rot but susceptible to insect attack without treatment.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $8.00 - $12.00 per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- 20-40 years based on the style of carving, darkening of the finish in crevices, and moderate oxidation of the raw surface.
- Sustainability Status
- Khaya is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List; limited CITES Appendix II listings for some species.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, interior trim, carving, reproduction antiques, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
West and Central Africa (Khaya) or Southeast Asia (Shorea)
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though interlocked grain can cause fuzzy surfaces or tearout during planing if tools aren't sharp.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes very well. A grain filler is often recommended for a smooth glassy finish; Danish oil or lacquer is ideal to highlight chatoyance.
Notable Features
Distinctive reddish hue, relatively lightweight for a hardwood, and famous for its 'ribbon' figure when quarter-sawn.
