Most likely African mahogany; alternatives include sapele or khaya-type mahogany. — Khaya spp., probably Khaya ivorensis or K. anthotheca.

Most likely African mahogany; alternatives include sapele or khaya-type mahogany.

Khaya spp., probably Khaya ivorensis or K. anthotheca. · Hardwood; African tropical timber.

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood; African tropical timber.
Origin
Tropical West and Central Africa, including Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, Cameroon, Gabon, and related regions.
Hardness
Approximately 800–1,070 lbf Janka, ranging from Soft to Medium depending on species.
Durability
Moderately durable; generally reasonable decay resistance, but not a premium outdoor-weathering wood and vulnerable to prolonged moisture and insect exposure.

Got a wood sample like this?

Identify any wood from a photo, free.

Identify wood

Grain Pattern

Predominantly straight to slightly interlocked, with moderately coarse texture and visible open pores; the slab appears flat-sawn and shows no strong decorative figure.

Color & Appearance

Pinkish tan to light reddish brown heartwood with relatively subtle color variation; likely to deepen toward reddish brown with oxidation and light exposure. Sapwood distinction is unclear.

Hardness (Janka)

Approximately 800–1,070 lbf Janka, ranging from Soft to Medium depending on species.

Durability & Decay Resistance

Moderately durable; generally reasonable decay resistance, but not a premium outdoor-weathering wood and vulnerable to prolonged moisture and insect exposure.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Approximately US$8–$18 per board foot for ordinary kiln-dried stock; figured or exceptionally wide slabs may be higher.

AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.

Wood Age Estimate
The photograph cannot establish chronological age; the surface appears recently milled or weathered only lightly, with no reliable antique patina.

Common Uses

Furniture, cabinetry, millwork, doors, paneling, veneer, boat interiors, and general joinery.

Geographic Origin

Tropical West and Central Africa, including Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, Cameroon, Gabon, and related regions.

Workability

Generally machines and sands well, though interlocked grain can tear out during planing; predrilling and sharp tooling are advisable. Gluing and finishing are usually straightforward.

Finish Recommendations

Use a sanding sealer followed by oil, shellac, lacquer, or polyurethane; a clear finish will emphasize reddish color. Fill pores first if a glass-smooth surface is desired.

Notable Features

Large pores, warm reddish-tan color, moderate weight, and occasional ribbon figure from interlocked grain distinguish it from finer-textured domestic hardwoods.

Learn more about Most likely African mahogany; alternatives include sapele or khaya-type mahogany. in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 9, 2026