African Mahogany
Khaya ivorensis (and related Khaya species) · Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Origin
- West Tropical Africa (from Liberia to Angola).
- Hardness
- 830 lbf (Soft to Medium Hardness)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable; offers some resistance to rot but is susceptible to insect attack. Primarily used for interior applications.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Interlocked grain producing a characteristic 'ribbon stripe' figure when quarter-sawn (as seen in the sample); texture is medium to coarse.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood ranges from a pale pink to a deep reddish-brown. It displays high natural luster and chatoyancy (shimmer). The color typically darkens and becomes richer with age and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
830 lbf (Soft to Medium Hardness)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable; offers some resistance to rot but is susceptible to insect attack. Primarily used for interior applications.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- Approximately $7.50–$12.00 per board foot depending on figure intensity and width.
- Wood Age Estimate
- 20-50 years based on the hardware style (Federal/Hepplewhite reproduction) and the oxidized depth of the reddish-brown patina.
- Sustainability Status
- Listed on the IUCN Red List as Vulnerable due to population reduction; not currently CITES listed but FSC-certified sources are preferred.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, veneer, boat building (interior), musical instruments (guitar bodies), and high-end millwork.
Geographic Origin
West Tropical Africa (from Liberia to Angola).
Workability
Generally easy to work with tools, though the interlocked grain can cause significant 'tearout' during planing or surfacing. It glues and finishes very well.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane or lacquer for durability; however, a grain filler is often recommended before applying high-gloss finishes due to the open-pore structure.
Notable Features
Features a distinct ribbon-stripe figure; lacks the prominent scent of true Spanish Cedar; dust can be a mild respiratory irritant.
