Balsa
Ochroma pyramidale • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, coarse grain with a distinctively open, porous texture. Often exhibits a fuzzy or stringy appearance when freshly cut or sanded due to its low density fibers.
Color Description
Mostly sapwood with a pale cream to oatmeal color, occasionally showing a hint of pink or tan. Heartwood is slightly darker but rarely seen in commercial samples. It has a low luster and does not significantly change color with age.
Hardness Rating
100 lbf (Very Soft)
Durability Rating
Non-durable; very susceptible to rot and insect attack. Generally intended for indoor use only and must be kept dry.
Common Uses
Model building (airplanes/architectural), surfboards (historic and core material), insulation, packing materials, flotation devices, and light-duty hobby crafts.
Geographic Origin
Tropical South America and Central America, with Ecuador being the primary commercial source.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 to $15.00 per board foot for high-grade hobby stock, though often sold in small blocks or sheets at specialty pricing.
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively recent/new stock based on the lack of oxidation, the bright white color, and the presence of fresh mechanical processing marks/tearing.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List. It is a fast-growing, renewable species often grown on plantations.
Workability
Very easy to cut with a sharp hobby knife or razor. Tends to crush or tear under dull tools. Glues and finishes well, though it is highly absorbent and will soak up paint or finish rapidly.
Notable Features
Exceptionally lightweight and buoyant. The wood is technically a hardwood despite being extremely soft. It has very low density and provides excellent thermal and acoustic insulation.
Finish Recommendations
Sanding sealer or primer is highly recommended to prevent the wood from over-absorbing final coats. Lacquer and acrylic paints are common for models.
Identification Confidence
High; the extremely pale color combined with the characteristic stringy/fuzzy surface texture and large visible vessel pores are definitive indicators of Balsa.