Mango Wood
Mangifera indica · Exotic/Tropical
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical
- Origin
- Native to South Asia (India/Southeast Asia), but widely cultivated in tropical regions worldwide.
- Hardness
- 1,070 lbf (Medium Hardness)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable; susceptible to fungal decay and insect attack if not treated, but performs well for indoor furniture.
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Grain Pattern
Highly variable and interlocked grain with straight sections; features a coarse texture and occasional spalting or curly figure. The sample shows a prominent knot and irregular cathedral shifts.
Color & Appearance
Medium golden-brown heartwood with streaks of yellow and pink; sapwood is lighter. Known for significant color variation and a natural luster; develops a deeper golden patina with age.
Hardness (Janka)
1,070 lbf (Medium Hardness)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable; susceptible to fungal decay and insect attack if not treated, but performs well for indoor furniture.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $10.00 - $15.00 per board foot depending on figure and spalting levels.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively modern (5-15 years post-processing); the surface shows signs of industrial sanding and factory finishing with light oxidation and household wear.
- Sustainability Status
- Highly sustainable; often harvested from fruit plantations once the trees reach the end of their fruit-bearing life. Not listed in CITES or IUCN Red List.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, turned objects, veneer, and musical instruments (ukuleles).
Geographic Origin
Native to South Asia (India/Southeast Asia), but widely cultivated in tropical regions worldwide.
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though interlocked grain may cause tearout during planing. Glues and finishes very well.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils or polyurethane to highlight the diverse color streaks. Sanding to a high grit is necessary due to the coarse texture.
Notable Features
Often displays spalting (dark streaks caused by fungi). It is a sustainable byproduct of the fruit industry and lacks a distinctive scent when finished.
