Brazilian Cherry (Jatoba)
Hymenaea courbaril · Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Origin
- Central America, northern South America, and the Amazon basin.
- Hardness
- 2,350 lbf (Very Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable. Excellent resistance to rot, decay, termites, and weathering.
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Grain Pattern
Interlocked to irregular grain with a medium to coarse texture; exhibits a natural luster.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood varies from a vibrant salmon red to a deep brownish-red, often with dark contrasting streaks. Sapwood is a lighter grayish-white. Darkens significantly to a deeper reddish-brown upon exposure to light.
Hardness (Janka)
2,350 lbf (Very Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable. Excellent resistance to rot, decay, termites, and weathering.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $8.00 to $14.00 per board foot.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern to relatively recent stock (0-10 years old), typical of pre-finished or unfinished flooring planks packaged in cardboard.
- Sustainability Status
- Generally considered sustainable as it is abundant in its native range and often plantation-grown, not CITES listed.
Common Uses
Flooring, heavy-duty construction, cabinetry, fine furniture, turning, and tool handles.
Geographic Origin
Central America, northern South America, and the Amazon basin.
Workability
Difficult to work due to extreme hardness. Blunter cutting edges quickly. Glues and finishes well, but pre-boring is required for nailing and screwing.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane, conversion varnish, or penetrating oils. Finishes adhere well, though oily spots may require wiping down with a solvent prior to application.
Notable Features
Contains natural oils, extremely dense and heavy, high shock resistance, distinct reddish hue that darkens dramatically in sunlight.
