African Mahogany
Khaya ivorensis • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Interlocked grain producing a subtle ribbon stripe when quarter-sawn; texture is medium to coarse with open pores and a straight to wavy figure.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from a pale pink to a deep reddish-brown; sapwood is a yellowish-white. It exhibits a distinct golden luster and chatoyance, darkening with age and light exposure.
Hardness Rating
830 lbf (Soft to Medium)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable; offers some resistance to rot but is susceptible to insect attack and not as weather-resistant as Genuine Mahogany.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, interior trim, veneer, boat building, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
West tropical Africa (primarily Ivory Coast, Ghana, and Nigeria).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Approximately $7.00 - $10.00 per board foot depending on figure and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively recent/contemporary stock; shows minimal oxidation or patina consistent with modern lumber processing.
Sustainability Status
Listed on the IUCN Red List as Vulnerable due to population reduction; not currently CITES listed but FSC certification is common.
Workability
Generally easy to work with tools, though interlocked grain can cause surface tear-out during planing. Glues and finishes well.
Notable Features
Often used as a more affordable substitute for Honduran Mahogany; can cause respiratory irritation in some woodworkers; lacks a distinct odor.
Finish Recommendations
Responds well to all finishes. A grain filler is recommended if a glass-smooth surface is desired due to the large open pores. Finishes beautifully with oils to enhance chatoyance.
Identification Confidence
High; the reddish-pink hue, distinct open-pore structure, and characteristic interlocked grain are hallmark indicators of Khaya species.