Balsa
Ochroma pyramidale • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight with a medium to coarse texture; diffuse-porous with no distinct figure
Color Description
Pale white to oatmeal or yellowish-tan; sapwood and heartwood are rarely distinguishable in commercial lumber. Very low luster.
Hardness Rating
88 lbf (Very Soft)
Durability Rating
Non-durable; perishable and highly susceptible to insect attack and rot if not kept dry
Common Uses
Model building, aircraft components, insulation, buoyancy aids (rafts), surfboards, and vibration damping
Geographic Origin
Central and South America; largely grown on plantations in Ecuador
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $15.00 per board foot (varies by density/grade)
Wood Age Estimate
Recently processed modern lumber; fresh mill marks and lack of oxidation suggest it is less than 2 years old
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; highly sustainable due to rapid growth cycles
Workability
Easily cut with hand tools but requires very sharp blades to avoid crushing fibers; glues and finishes well but is highly absorbent
Notable Features
Extremely lightweight and buoyant; highest strength-to-weight ratio of any commercial wood species
Finish Recommendations
Sand lightly with high grit; seal with sanding sealer or clear lacquer to prevent excessive absorption of topcoats
Identification Confidence
High; the unique combination of the extremely fuzzy/fibrous texture of the rough-cut edge, the pale oatmeal color, and the visible lightness of the material is diagnostic for Balsa.