Indian Almond
Terminalia catappa · Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Origin
- Native to Tropical Asia, Northern Australia, and Polynesia; widely naturalized across the tropical regions of Africa and the Americas.
- Hardness
- 1000 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable; offers some resistance to decay but is susceptible to insect attack, especially powderpost beetles.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly interlocked grain with a medium to coarse texture; often exhibits a slightly irregular or wavy figure in larger sections.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood ranges from light reddish brown to a deeper reddish brown. Sapwood is a pale yellowish-white and is clearly demarcated. It can darken significantly upon exposure to light and UV.
Hardness (Janka)
1000 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable; offers some resistance to decay but is susceptible to insect attack, especially powderpost beetles.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $10 - $15 per board foot as specialty exotic lumber, though often locally sourced and cheaper in its native range.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern sample; clean edges and clear marker ink suggest a recently processed and dried lumber blank.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern; Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List. Generally considered sustainable due to its wide distribution as a shade tree.
Common Uses
Furniture, boat building, flooring, cabinetry, tool handles, turning, and sometimes used for musical instrument components in its native regions.
Geographic Origin
Native to Tropical Asia, Northern Australia, and Polynesia; widely naturalized across the tropical regions of Africa and the Americas.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though interlocked grain can cause some tearout during planing. Gluing and finishing are typically straightforward.
Finish Recommendations
Responds well to oil-based finishes which enhance the reddish-brown hues. Polyurethane or lacquer is recommended for surfaces requiring high durability.
Notable Features
The leaves are widely used in the aquarium hobby for their tannin content. The wood is known for its toughness and ability to withstand water exposure when properly treated.
