
Mesquite
Prosopis glandulosa · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Southwestern North America and Northern Mexico
- Hardness
- 2340 lbf (Very Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable with excellent resistance to decay, rot, and insects
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Grain Pattern
Irregular to somewhat interlocked grain with coarse texture, featuring natural live edge and a small knot characteristic of a slab cut
Color & Appearance
Rich reddish-brown to dark brown heartwood with contrasting yellowish sapwood, showing moderate luster and darkening slightly with age and exposure
Hardness (Janka)
2340 lbf (Very Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable with excellent resistance to decay, rot, and insects
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 8.00 to 15.00 USD per board foot for raw slabs depending on size and grade
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated 5 to 15 years as air-dried or kiln-dried slab material with minor oxidation on the surface
- Sustainability Status
- Abundant and considered invasive in many regions, highly sustainable local harvesting
Common Uses
Fine furniture, custom tables, turning, flooring, cabinetry, and knife handles
Geographic Origin
Southwestern North America and Northern Mexico
Workability
Excellent dimensional stability, works well with machine and hand tools despite high hardness, glues and finishes well
Finish Recommendations
Takes oils, polyurethane, and lacquer exceptionally well, enhancing the rich color variation and grain depth
Notable Features
Exceptional dimensional stability once dry, contains natural oils, highly resistant to checking compared to other dense hardwoods