Mango Wood
Mangifera indica · Exotic/Hardwood
- Type
- Exotic/Hardwood
- Origin
- Native to South and Southeast Asia; widely cultivated in tropical regions worldwide (India, Thailand, Philippines).
- Hardness
- 1,070 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable; susceptible to fungal attack and insects if left untreated, though the heartwood has decent rot resistance.
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Grain Pattern
Interlocked and wavy grain; features a coarse texture with large open pores and occasional figured patterns like curly or mottled grain as seen in the sample.
Color & Appearance
Golden brown heartwood with streaks of pink, yellow, and dark brown. Sapwood is typically pale yellow. Known for high luster and can develop a gray or dark brown patina over time.
Hardness (Janka)
1,070 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable; susceptible to fungal attack and insects if left untreated, though the heartwood has decent rot resistance.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $5.00 - $12.00 per board foot depending on figure and coloring.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Based on the lack of deep oxidation and the modern mechanical surface finishing, the sample appears to be from a contemporary piece of furniture, likely harvested within the last 5-10 years.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; highly sustainable as it is a byproduct of the fruit industry.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, musical instruments (ukuleles/guitars), turned objects, cabinetry, and kitchenware (bowls/cutting boards).
Geographic Origin
Native to South and Southeast Asia; widely cultivated in tropical regions worldwide (India, Thailand, Philippines).
Workability
Generally easy to work with although interlocked grain can cause tearout during planing. It sands well and glues easily, but high silica content can dull cutters quickly.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and clears well. Recommended to use a sealer or high-build polyurethane to fill the large pores for a smooth surface; also responds beautifully to natural oils.
Notable Features
Often displays spalting or mineral streaks; distinct sweet odor when being worked; relatively lightweight for a hardwood but very strong for its density.
