Bloodwood
Brosimum rubescens · Exotic/Tropical
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical
- Origin
- Tropical Central and South America (primarily the Amazon basin)
- Hardness
- 2900 lbf (Extremely Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable, excellent resistance to decay and termites
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly interlocked, with a fine, even texture
Color & Appearance
Vibrant vivid red to brownish-red heartwood that tends to darken to a deeper brownish red over time when exposed to light; clearly demarcated pale yellowish-white sapwood
Hardness (Janka)
2900 lbf (Extremely Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable, excellent resistance to decay and termites
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $10 to $20 per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be freshly cut or recently processed within the last 1 to 3 years
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices or the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, but harvested from tropical rainforests where sustainable management varies
Common Uses
Fine furniture, turning, inlay, cabinetry, cue sticks, tool handles, boat building
Geographic Origin
Tropical Central and South America (primarily the Amazon basin)
Workability
Difficult to work due to extreme density and hardness; blunts cutting edges quickly, but glues and finishes well if properly prepared
Finish Recommendations
Takes a high natural polish well; compatible with oils, shellac, and lacquer, though solvent-based finishes may require careful preparation
Notable Features
High density, exceptional natural luster, rich chatoyance, and a striking natural bright red coloration
