Jatoba (Brazilian Cherry)
Hymenaea courbaril · Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Origin
- Central America, southern Mexico, northern South America, and the Amazon basin.
- Hardness
- 2,350 lbf (Very Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable. Excellent resistance to rot, decay, termites, and moderate weathering.
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Grain Pattern
Interlocked to straight grain with a medium to coarse texture. Exhibits a noticeable natural luster and slight ribbon-like figure from the interlocked grain.
Color & Appearance
Freshly cut heartwood is salmon red or orange-brown, darkening significantly upon exposure to light to a deep reddish-brown or burgundy with contrasting dark streaks. Sapwood is a lighter greyish-white.
Hardness (Janka)
2,350 lbf (Very Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable. Excellent resistance to rot, decay, termites, and moderate weathering.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $6.00 to $10.00 per board foot for standard kiln-dried lumber.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be relatively recent to moderately seasoned lumber (1-5 years old), showing initial darkening from light exposure.
- Sustainability Status
- Generally not listed on CITES appendices or IUCN red list as threatened, but care should be taken to source from responsibly managed forests (FSC certified).
Common Uses
Flooring, heavy-duty furniture, cabinetry, exterior decking, tool handles, boat building, and turning.
Geographic Origin
Central America, southern Mexico, northern South America, and the Amazon basin.
Workability
Difficult to work with hand and machine tools due to its extreme density and hardness; blunts cutting edges quickly. Glues and finishes reasonably well, though pre-boring is necessary for nailing and screwing.
Finish Recommendations
Takes high-gloss finishes very well. Water-based or solvent-based polyurethanes, varnishes, and penetrating oils work effectively. Pre-conditioning is generally not required.
Notable Features
Extremely dense and heavy; contains natural oils that give it high resistance to decay; dust can be an irritant to skin and respiratory system.
