African Mahogany
Khaya anthotheca • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Interlocked grain resulting in a characteristic ribbon-stripe figure when quarter-sawn; texture is medium to coarse with a high natural luster.
Color Description
Heartwood varies from a light pinkish brown to a deeper reddish brown. Color tends to darken with age and light exposure. Features high chatoyancy.
Hardness Rating
830 lbf (Soft to Medium-Soft)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable; rated as moderately resistant to rot and termites, though susceptible to marine borers.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, boat building, interior trim, veneer, and musical instruments (guitar bodies).
Geographic Origin
West, Central, and East Africa (tropical regions).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $9.00 per board foot depending on figure and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively recent harvesting (5-10 years) based on the surface roughness and light oxidation of the pinkish-red heartwood.
Sustainability Status
Vulnerable (IUCN Red List); not typically CITES listed but population is decreasing. FSC-certified sources are available.
Workability
Generally easy to work with tools, though interlocked grain can cause significant tearout during planing or jointing. Glues and finishes well.
Notable Features
Often used as a more sustainable/affordable alternative to Genuine Mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla). Light cedar-like scent when working.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes enhance the ribbon figure and chatoyancy. Grain filler is often required for a smooth, glass-like finish due to large pores.
Identification Confidence
High; the reddish-pink hue combined with the distinct ribbon-stripe figure and porous texture is diagnostic for the Khaya genus.