Monkeypod (also known as Samanea Saman or Rain Tree)
Samanea saman · Exotic/Tropical
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical
- Origin
- Central and South America; widely introduced and naturalized throughout tropical regions globally, including Hawaii and Southeast Asia.
- Hardness
- 900 lbf, Medium
- Durability
- Moderately Durable; good resistance to dry-wood termites but susceptible to marine borers and moderate decay if left in direct ground contact.
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Grain Pattern
Interlocked and wavy grain with prominent cathedral arched growth rings characteristic of flat-sawn or live-edge slabs, featuring natural figure and smooth transitions.
Color & Appearance
Rich golden-brown to dark brown heartwood often accented with striking lighter streaks of yellowish sapwood and dramatic dark contrasting bands. Exhibits a medium natural luster and darkens gracefully with age and exposure to light.
Hardness (Janka)
900 lbf, Medium
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable; good resistance to dry-wood termites but susceptible to marine borers and moderate decay if left in direct ground contact.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 8 to 15 dollars per board foot for standard slabs, varying widely based on width and unique figure.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be a recently milled kiln-dried or air-dried slab, approximately 1 to 5 years old based on surface conditions.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices or the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; widely harvested from managed or introduced tropical populations.
Common Uses
High-end live edge furniture, dining tables, bowls, carvings, cabinetry, and architectural millwork.
Geographic Origin
Central and South America; widely introduced and naturalized throughout tropical regions globally, including Hawaii and Southeast Asia.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though interlocked grain can cause occasional tearout during planing. Glues, stains, and finishes exceptionally well.
Finish Recommendations
Takes clear penetrating oils, lacquers, and modern polyurethane finishes exceptionally well, highlighting the deep rich tones and varied grain patterns.
Notable Features
Features distinct color contrast between heartwood and sapwood, stable dimensional qualities once properly dried, and a relatively lightweight yet strong structure.