African Mahogany
Khaya ivorensis · Exotic/Tropical
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical
- Origin
- Tropical West Africa
- Hardness
- 830 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable; variable resistance to rot and termites.
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Grain Pattern
Interlocked grain with a prominent chatoyant ribbon stripe and wavy figure.
Color & Appearance
Medium reddish-brown to deep pinkish-red heartwood that darkens significantly to a rich reddish-brown with exposure to light; narrow pale yellowish sapwood.
Hardness (Janka)
830 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable; variable resistance to rot and termites.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 8.00 to 14.00 USD per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be relatively freshly milled or recently finished lumber, approximately 1 to 5 years old.
- Sustainability Status
- Listed on the IUCN Red List as Vulnerable due to overexploitation; not CITES listed.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, boat building, interior millwork, musical instruments, and veneer.
Geographic Origin
Tropical West Africa
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though interlocked grain can cause tearout during planing; glues, turns, and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, oils, lacquers, and polyurethanes exceptionally well; a grain filler may be needed for a perfectly smooth glass-like finish.
Notable Features
High natural chatoyance and ribbon stripe figure when quarter-sawn; distinct luster and pleasant cedar-like scent when freshly cut.
