Mango Wood (Alternative: Spalted Beech or Soft Maple)
Mangifera indica · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Native to South Asia (India, Myanmar), widely cultivated across tropical regions worldwide including Southeast Asia, Hawaii, and Mexico
- Hardness
- 1,070 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Slightly Durable; susceptible to decay, fungal staining, and insect attack if left untreated outdoors
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Grain Pattern
Wavy to interlocked grain with fine-to-medium texture and subtle spalting/dark mineral streaks present
Color & Appearance
Pale golden-brown to grayish-tan body with localized dark brown to blackish streaks and spalting lines; low natural luster in rough-sawn state
Hardness (Janka)
1,070 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Slightly Durable; susceptible to decay, fungal staining, and insect attack if left untreated outdoors
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $5.00 - $9.00 per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively recent, likely harvested within the last 1-5 years based on surface oxidation state and rough tool marks
- Sustainability Status
- Highly sustainable; often harvested as a byproduct of fruit orchards once trees end their peak fruiting cycle; not listed on CITES appendices or threatened on the IUCN Red List
Common Uses
Furniture, decorative bowls, turned objects, cabinetry, ukulele and guitar bodies, veneer, and wall paneling
Geographic Origin
Native to South Asia (India, Myanmar), widely cultivated across tropical regions worldwide including Southeast Asia, Hawaii, and Mexico
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though interlocked grain can cause tearout during planing; sands easily and holds glue and fasteners well
Finish Recommendations
Thorough sanding required to smooth the rough fibers; finishes exceptionally well with clear penetrating oils (danish or tung oil), polyurethane, or lacquers to highlight natural figure and contrast
Notable Features
Distinctive color variations and potential for dramatic spalting; light-to-medium weight; subtle fruity aroma when freshly cut
