African Mahogany
Khaya ivorensis • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Interlocked grain producing a characteristic 'ribbon stripe' pattern when quarter-sawn; medium to coarse texture with large open pores.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from a pale pink to a deep reddish-brown. It exhibits a high natural luster and chatoyancy (shimmer) that darkens significantly with age and light exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,070 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable; offers some resistance to rot but is susceptible to insect attack. Best suited for interior use.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, veneering, boat building, interior trim, and musical instruments (guitar bodies).
Geographic Origin
West and Central Africa (Tropical regions)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$7.00 - $11.00 USD per board foot depending on figure and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern processed lumber, likely cut within the last 5-10 years based on surface oxidation and processing marks.
Sustainability Status
IUCN Red List status: Vulnerable. Listed in CITES Appendix II under certain conditions. FSC certified sources are often available.
Workability
Generally easy to work, but the interlocked grain can cause significant tearout during planing or jointing. Glues, stains, and finishes well.
Notable Features
Faint cedar-like scent when freshly cut. Known for its aesthetic similarity to Genuine Mahogany (Swietenia) but with a more prominent ribbon figure.
Finish Recommendations
Responds excellently to oil-based finishes that enhance chatoyancy. Grain fillers are recommended if a glass-smooth surface is desired due to large pores.
Identification Confidence
High; the distinctive ribbon stripe figure, pore structure, and characteristic reddish-brown hue are diagnostic of the Khaya genus.