Brazilian Cherry (Jatoba)
Hymenaea courbaril • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Interlocked grain with a medium to coarse texture; features subtle cathedral patterns and slight irregular figure in some boards.
Color Description
Heartwood is a salmon-red to orange-brown when fresh, darkening to a deep reddish-brown with light exposure. High natural luster and moderate chatoyance.
Hardness Rating
2,690 lbf (Extremely Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; highly resistant to rot, termites, and most wood-boring insects.
Common Uses
Flooring, heavy construction, furniture, tool handles, ship building, and stair treads.
Geographic Origin
Central America, southern Mexico, the Caribbean, and northern South America.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$8.00 - $12.00 per board foot; $5.00 - $10.00 per square foot for pre-finished flooring.
Wood Age Estimate
Approximately 10-20 years based on surface wear, scratching patterns, and the deep oxidation of the reddish-brown patina.
Sustainability Status
IUCN Red List status of Least Concern; however, it is not currently CITES listed but widely available with FSC certification.
Workability
Difficult due to extreme density and interlocked grain; causes significant dulling of cutters. Glues, turns, and finishes well, though pre-boring is required for fasteners.
Notable Features
Extremely heavy and dense; lacks a distinctive odor; known for its high shock resistance and exceptional wear characteristics.
Finish Recommendations
Water-based or oil-based polyurethanes are common for flooring. Due to high density, thin coats are recommended to ensure proper adhesion and curing.
Identification Confidence
High; the characteristic deep reddish hue, extreme hardness evidenced by surface scratches, and specific grain texture are hallmarks of Jatoba flooring.