Jatoba (Brazilian Cherry)
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 and termites, though susceptible to marine borers.
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Grain Pattern
Interlocked with a medium to coarse texture; features distinctive dark streaks appearing as a stripe pattern on quartersawn surfaces.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is light orange-brown to a darker reddish-brown. Exhibits significant darkening to a deep russet red upon exposure to light. Moderate natural luster.
Hardness (Janka)
2,690 lbf (Extremely Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and termites, though susceptible to marine borers.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $10.00 - $15.00 per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Freshly milled or recently surfaced; heartwood shows initial oxidation but lacks deep patina of aged stock.
- Sustainability Status
- IUCN Red List: Least Concern; widely available and generally not CITES listed.
Common Uses
Flooring, furniture, cabinetry, tool handles, ship building, and heavy construction.
Geographic Origin
Central America, southern Mexico, the Caribbean, and northern South America.
Workability
Difficult due to extreme density and interlocked grain; causes significant blunting of cutters. Glues, stains, and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane for flooring; oil-based finishes enhance the deep reddish-brown color transition.
Notable Features
Extremely heavy and stiff; can produce a mild, unpleasant odor when being worked. Known for exceptional shock resistance.
