Brazilian Cherry (Jatoba) — Hymenaea courbaril

Brazilian Cherry (Jatoba)

Hymenaea courbaril · Exotic/Tropical

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Exotic/Tropical
Origin
Central America, southern Mexico, northern South America, and the West Indies.
Hardness
2,350 lbf (Very Hard)
Durability
Very Durable, with exceptional resistance to rot, decay, and insect attacks.

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Grain Pattern

Interlocked to straight grain with a medium texture and natural medium luster.

Color & Appearance

Heartwood is a rich reddish-brown or orange-brown, often with dark contrasting streaks. Sapwood is a lighter grayish-white. Darkens significantly to a deeper reddish-brown upon exposure to light.

Hardness (Janka)

2,350 lbf (Very Hard)

Durability & Decay Resistance

Very Durable, with exceptional resistance to rot, decay, and insect attacks.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

8.00 to 14.00 USD per board foot.

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

Wood Age Estimate
Estimated to be 30 to 70 years old based on wear patterns, surface oxidation, and vintage finish patina.

Common Uses

Flooring, heavy-duty furniture, cabinetry, tool handles, boat building, and turnings.

Geographic Origin

Central America, southern Mexico, northern South America, and the West Indies.

Workability

Difficult to work with both hand and machine tools due to extreme density and hardness. It has a high blunting effect on cutters, though it glues, turns, and finishes well.

Finish Recommendations

Takes stains and finishes well, though oil-based polyurethanes or varnishes are preferred to highlight the rich chatoyance and deep color.

Notable Features

Extremely dense and heavy, high shock resistance, contains natural mineral deposits, and can release irritating dust during machining.

Notes

Mjb dark 2

Learn more about Brazilian Cherry (Jatoba) in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified August 4, 2026