Spalted Mango
Mangifera indica · Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Origin
- Native to tropical Asia, widely cultivated in Hawaii, Mexico, and Central/South America.
- Hardness
- 1,070 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Non-durable; susceptible to decay and insect attack, which is why it is often harvested specifically for the spalting effect formed during initial decay.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Interlocked and irregular grain with prominent fungal spalting. Features coarse texture and dramatic dark brown to black streaks caused by Scytalidium species fungus.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is typically golden brown, yellow, or pinkish with dark brown spalting lines. Sapwood is yellowish-white and usually clearly defined. Highly susceptible to color change without UV protection.
Hardness (Janka)
1,070 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable; susceptible to decay and insect attack, which is why it is often harvested specifically for the spalting effect formed during initial decay.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $15.00 to $30.00 per board foot depending on the intensity of spalting and figure.
- Wood Age Estimate
- The sample appears to be modern, kiln-dried stock with early-stage spalting, estimated at 1-3 years since harvest based on the brightness of the yellow tones.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; generally considered sustainable as it is a byproduct of fruit production.
Common Uses
Furniture, musical instruments (ukuleles and guitars), turned bowls, veneer, and decorative cabinetry.
Geographic Origin
Native to tropical Asia, widely cultivated in Hawaii, Mexico, and Central/South America.
Workability
Generally easy to work, but spalted areas can be soft and prone to tearout. Interlocked grain can cause fuzzing during planning. Glues and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Stabilizing resin or thin cyanoacrylate (CA) glue on soft spalted spots is recommended. Finishes well with polyurethane, lacquer, or oils that pop the chatoyance.
Notable Features
Known for its 'mango' scent when freshly cut. Spalting creates unique 'zone lines' that make every piece a one-of-a-kind decorative specimen.
