Brazilian Cherry (Jatoba)
Hymenaea courbaril · Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Origin
- Central America, southern Mexico, the Caribbean, and northern South America.
- Hardness
- 2,690 lbf (Extremely Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot, termites, and most wood-boring insects.
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Grain Pattern
Interlocked grain with a medium to coarse texture; visible cathedral figure in the flat-sawn sections and subtle ribbon-stripe figure.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood ranges from light orange-brown to a deep reddish-brown with contrasting darker streaks. Sapwood is typically a light greyish-yellow. Exhibits significant darkening (patina) upon exposure to light.
Hardness (Janka)
2,690 lbf (Extremely Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot, termites, and most wood-boring insects.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $8.00 - $12.00 per board foot depending on grade and widening availability.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern manufacture (5-15 years); consistent with pre-finished flooring or contemporary furniture styles showing light surface wear.
- Sustainability Status
- IUCN Red List status of Least Concern; however, it is heavily exported. FSC-certified options are often available.
Common Uses
Flooring, heavy construction, furniture, cabinetry, tool handles, shipbuilding, and railroad ties.
Geographic Origin
Central America, southern Mexico, the Caribbean, and northern South America.
Workability
Difficult to work due to extreme density and hardness. It has a high blunting effect on cutters; gluing can be difficult due to natural oils, but it sands and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Responds well to oil-based finishes that highlight its deep red tones, or water-based polyurethane to slow the darkening process. Penetrating oils are highly recommended.
Notable Features
Lacks a distinctive odor. It is exceptionally strong and shock-resistant. Dust can cause skin irritation in some workers.
