Balsa
Ochroma pyramidale • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, with an open, coarse texture; generally lacks a decorative figure.
Color Description
Pale white to off-white or oatmeal color, sometimes with a pinkish or yellowish cast. Sapwood and heartwood are generally indistinguishable in lightweight commercial grades.
Hardness Rating
88 lbf (Very Soft)
Durability Rating
Non-durable; highly susceptible to rot, insect attack, and fungal staining if not kept dry.
Common Uses
Model building, aircraft components, insulation, surfboards, film props (breakaway furniture), and core material in sandwich construction.
Geographic Origin
Native to southern Mexico to southern Brazil, but primarily commercially grown in Ecuador.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$5.00 - $15.00 per board foot depending on density and grade.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled/Recent; the wood shows no oxidation, UV darkening, or historical patina.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and fast-growing.
Workability
Very easy to cut with hand tools but requires extremely sharp blades to avoid crushing fibers; glues and finishes well but is highly absorbent.
Notable Features
Extremely low density and high strength-to-weight ratio; feels like styrofoam; lacks a distinct scent.
Finish Recommendations
Requires sanding sealer due to high porosity; water-based or solvent-based lacquers and sandable primers are common.
Identification Confidence
High; the distinctively fuzzy surface texture (cell crushing), ultra-pale color, and characteristic coarse open grain are diagnostic of Balsa wood.