African Mahogany
Khaya anthotheca • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Interlocked grain with a medium to coarse texture; features distinctive ribbon-stripe figure when quarter-sawn.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from a pale pink to a deep reddish brown. It exhibits a high natural luster and significant chatoyance; colors tend to darken with age and light exposure.
Hardness Rating
1070 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable; offers some resistance to rot/decay but is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, boatbuilding, veneer, interior trim, and musical instruments (guitar bodies).
Geographic Origin
West, Central, and East Africa (tropical regions).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $9.00 per board foot.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern (5-15 years) based on the clear polyurethane finish and lack of deep oxidation or historic wear marks.
Sustainability Status
Listed on the IUCN Red List as vulnerable; not currently CITES listed, but widely available as FSC certified.
Workability
Generally easy to work, though interlocked grain can cause tearout during planing. Glues and finishes well.
Notable Features
Light cedar-like scent when being worked; known for its acoustic properties and excellent stability once dried.
Finish Recommendations
Responds well to all finishes; grain filler is recommended for a glass-smooth surface. Penetrating oils highlight chatoyance.
Identification Confidence
Medium; the color, large open pores, and ribbon-like grain are characteristic of the Khaya genus, though it can resemble Sapele.