African Mahogany
Khaya anthotheca • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Interlocked grain producing a subtle ribbon stripe figure; straight to slightly wavy with a medium-coarse texture
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from light pink toward a deep reddish brown; darkens over time with exposure. Displays high chatoyance and luster under finish
Hardness Rating
830 lbf (Soft to Medium-Soft)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable; offers some resistance to rot but is susceptible to insect attack
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, interior trim, boat building, veneer, and musical instruments
Geographic Origin
West and Central Africa
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$7.00 - $12.00 per board foot
Wood Age Estimate
Modern (10-30 years) based on the finish condition and standardized mill marks
Sustainability Status
IUCN Red List: Vulnerable; widespread FSC certification available; not currently CITES listed
Workability
Generally easy to work, though interlocked grain can cause tearout during planing; glues and finishes exceptionally well
Notable Features
Lighter and softer than true (American) Mahogany; known for its distinctive 'ribbon' figure when quarter-sawn; mild cedar-like scent when freshly cut
Finish Recommendations
Responds excellently to oil-based finishes, polyurethane, or lacquer; darkens beautifully with many coats of tung or linseed oil
Identification Confidence
Medium-High; the reddish-brown hue and specific pore structure indicate a Mahogany substitute, with Khaya being the most common used in this specific texture.