Bloodwood (or Redheart)
Brosimum rubescens (or Erythroxylum spp.) · Exotic/Tropical
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical
- Origin
- Tropical Central and South America
- Hardness
- 2,900 lbf (Extremely Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable, with exceptional resistance to rot, decay, and insect attack.
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a fine, uniform texture.
Color & Appearance
Vibrant, deep crimson to blood-red heartwood with minimal contrast from the narrow sapwood. The color tends to darken to a deeper brownish-red over time with prolonged UV exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
2,900 lbf (Extremely Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable, with exceptional resistance to rot, decay, and insect attack.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $15.00 to $25.00 per board foot for domestic retail lumber.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively recent manufacture, estimated between 1 to 5 years old based on clean surface conditions and slight surface oxidation.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices and not on the IUCN Red List, though harvested from tropical rainforests where sustainable management varies.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, turned objects, inlays, pool cues, knife handles, and small specialty woodworking items.
Geographic Origin
Tropical Central and South America
Workability
Difficult to work due to extreme density and hardness. Tends to blunt cutting edges quickly, but glues and finishes well despite natural oils.
Finish Recommendations
Takes a high natural polish. Clear penetrating oils, shellac, or polyurethane work well, though wiping down oily surfaces with a solvent prior to finishing is recommended.
Notable Features
Extremely dense, heavy, and features a striking natural vivid red color without needing any stain.
