Mango
Mangifera indica · Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Origin
- Native to South and Southeast Asia; widely cultivated in tropical regions globally including India, Thailand, and Hawaii.
- Hardness
- 1,070 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable to Non-durable; susceptible to fungal attack and insects if left untreated, but stable for indoor use.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Interlocked and irregular grain featuring circular knots, birdseye-like clusters, and curly figure around the branch inclusions.
Color & Appearance
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 (Janka)
1,070 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable to Non-durable; susceptible to fungal attack and insects if left untreated, but stable for indoor use.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Notable Features
Often features spalting (fungal discoloration) which is highly prized; character wood often contains many knots and wild grain shifts.
