Brazilian Cherry (Jatoba)
Hymenaea courbaril · Exotic/Tropical
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical
- Origin
- Central America, southern Mexico, northern South America, and the Amazon basin.
- Hardness
- 2,350 lbf (Very Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable. Excellent resistance to rot, decay, and termite attack.
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Grain Pattern
Mostly straight to interlocked, with a medium to coarse texture and a natural luster.
Color & Appearance
Vibrant salmon red to deeper reddish-brown, often with contrasting dark streaks. Exhibits significant color change upon light exposure, darkening notably over time to a rich brownish-red.
Hardness (Janka)
2,350 lbf (Very Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable. Excellent resistance to rot, decay, and termite attack.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 8.00 to 14.00 USD per board foot for lumber, or 6.00 to 12.00 USD per square foot for prefinished flooring.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated between 5 to 15 years based on the standard moderate amber patina development and minimal surface wear.
- Sustainability Status
- Generally considered sustainable as it is widely distributed and abundant, not listed on CITES appendices or IUCN red list as threatened.
Common Uses
Flooring, high-end furniture, cabinetry, tool handles, and heavy construction.
Geographic Origin
Central America, southern Mexico, northern South America, and the Amazon basin.
Workability
Difficult to work with hand and machine tools due to extreme density and hardness. Blunting of cutting edges occurs quickly. Pre-boring is necessary for nailing and screwing.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes well, though its natural oils can occasionally retard the drying of certain oil-based finishes. Water-based or conversion varnishes work well over factory sanding.
Notable Features
High density, exceptional impact resistance, natural oily feel, and dramatic color darkening upon exposure to UV light.
