African Mahogany
Khaya anthotheca · Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Origin
- West and Central Africa
- Hardness
- 1,070 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable; rated as resistant to rot but susceptible to insect attack, especially powderpost beetles.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly interlocked grain with a medium texture and visible elongated pores
Color & Appearance
Medium reddish-brown heartwood with a natural luster. The color is fairly uniform but displays characteristic chatoyancy when light reflects off the grain. It tends to darken and deepen in color with age and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,070 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable; rated as resistant to rot but susceptible to insect attack, especially powderpost beetles.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $7.00 - $12.00 per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern sample likely from within the last 10-20 years, showing minimal historical patina but established oxidation from light exposure.
- Sustainability Status
- Listed on the IUCN Red List as Vulnerable significantly due to habitat loss and overexploitation; FSC certified stock is often available but carries a premium.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, interior trim, paneling, musical instruments (guitar bodies), boat building, and veneer.
Geographic Origin
West and Central Africa
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though the interlocked grain can cause tearout during planing. It glues, stains, and finishes exceptionally well.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane or lacquer works well for durability, but a penetrating oil finish (like Danish oil) or shellac will best highlight the wood's natural depth and shimmer.
Notable Features
Features a distinct shimmer (chatoyancy) and a faint, slightly spicy scent when freshly cut. It is often used as a more sustainable and affordable alternative to Genuine Mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla).
