Cumaru (Brazilian Teak)
Dipteryx odorata · Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Origin
- Central America and Northern South America (Amazon Basin)
- Hardness
- 3,540 lbf (Extremely Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot, decay, and termites. Often used as a substitute for Ipe due to similar weathering properties.
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Grain Pattern
Interlocked, wavy grain with a medium texture and fine pores. The sample shows a consistent, ribbon-like appearance typical of quarter-sawn tropical hardwoods.
Color & Appearance
Medium to dark brown heartwood with reddish or yellowish hues. It exhibits a natural medium luster and will darken slightly to a more uniform mahogany brown with UV exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
3,540 lbf (Extremely Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot, decay, and termites. Often used as a substitute for Ipe due to similar weathering properties.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $8.00 - $12.00 per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern sample; likely less than 5 years old based on the fresh milling marks, tongue-and-groove profile, and lack of oxidation.
- Sustainability Status
- Not CITES listed; classified as Least Concern by IUCN, though FSC certification is recommended to ensure responsible harvesting.
Common Uses
Outdoor decking, flooring, railroad ties, heavy construction, dock surfaces, and cabinetry.
Geographic Origin
Central America and Northern South America (Amazon Basin)
Workability
Difficult due to extreme density and interlocked grain. Causes significant dulling of cutting edges; pre-drilling is essential for screws. Glues well if surface oils are wiped with solvent.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oil finishes (such as Ipe oil) are best for outdoor use. For indoor use, water-based or oil-based polyurethanes work well, but may require a dewaxed shellac sealer first.
Notable Features
Faint vanilla or cinnamon-like scent when worked (due to coumarin content). High density makes it sink in water. It has very high oily content which aids in weather resistance.