Mango
Mangifera indica • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Interlocked and irregular grain featuring circular knots, birdseye-like clusters, and curly figure around the branch inclusions.
Color Description
Golden brown to dark honey heartwood with streaks of gray, yellow, and occasional pink. Exhibits natural luster and moderate chatoyance in figured areas; tends to darken slightly with age.
Hardness Rating
1,070 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable to Non-durable; susceptible to fungal attack and insects if left untreated, but stable for indoor use.
Common Uses
Furniture, decorative bowls, cabinetry, flooring, veneers, and musical instruments (ukuleles and guitars).
Geographic Origin
Native to South and Southeast Asia; widely cultivated in tropical regions globally including India, Thailand, and Hawaii.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$5.00 - $12.00 per board foot depending on figure and spalting.
Wood Age Estimate
Secondary use or modern furniture (5-15 years); visible surface oxidation and minor scratches suggest a domestic environment with moderate use.
Sustainability Status
Highly sustainable as a byproduct of the fruit industry; not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List.
Workability
Generally easy to work, though interlocked grain can cause teaout during planing. Glues and finishes well, but high silica content can dull cutting edges.
Notable Features
Often features spalting (fungal discoloration) which is highly prized; character wood often contains many knots and wild grain shifts.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane or lacquer works best to protect the surface; oil finishes (like Tung or Linseed) beautifully highlight grain figure but require more maintenance.
Identification Confidence
High; the distinct coloring, presence of small decorative knots, and texture are hallmark characteristics of Mango wood furniture.