Balsa
Ochroma pyramidale • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, with an open texture and very coarse grain; the fibers are notably fuzzy or stringy when rough-sawn
Color Description
Pale white to oatmeal or yellowish-tan. Heartwood is usually a pale reddish-brown but is rarely seen in commercial lumber; low luster and tends to gray over time if unfinished.
Hardness Rating
88 lbf (Very Soft)
Durability Rating
Non-durable; very susceptible to rot, insect attack, and moisture absorption
Common Uses
Model building, aircraft components, insulation, flotation devices, surfboards, and core material in composite sandwich structures
Geographic Origin
Tropical America (Southern Mexico to Southern Brazil), heavily cultivated in Ecuador
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Approximately $10.00 - $25.00 per board foot depending on thickness and density grading
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled or modern stock; lack of oxidation or graying suggests a recent cut (within 1-2 years)
Sustainability Status
Not CITES listed and classified as Least Concern by IUCN; widely available as FSC-certified sustainably harvested plantation wood
Workability
Very easy to cut with sharp knives or saws, but dull tools cause extreme crushing and tearing of the low-density fibers; glues and finishes well but absorbs liquid rapidly
Notable Features
Exceptionally lightweight and buoyant; highest strength-to-weight ratio of any commercial wood; feels velvety or fuzzy to the touch when unfinished
Finish Recommendations
Sanding sealer or light lacquer is recommended to prevent excessive absorption; oil finishes are usually avoided because the wood absorbs them like a sponge
Identification Confidence
High; the distinctively 'fuzzy' surface fiber characteristic of low-density Ochroma, combined with the pale color and porous texture, is diagnostic of Balsa