Description
Jatoba, also known as Brazilian Cherry, is one of the most popular and durable exotic hardwoods in the world. Sourced from the Hymenaea courbaril tree, it is native to the tropical regions of Southern Mexico, Central America, the West Indies, and the Amazon basin in South America. The wood is celebrated for its incredible hardness and its dramatic color transformation, deepening from a salmon-pink to a rich, reddish-brown over time.
Characteristics
Color: The heartwood varies from light orange-brown to a deep reddish-brown, often with dark streaks. It is highly photosensitive and will darken significantly upon exposure to light.
Grain: The grain is typically interlocked, providing a bold texture, though it can occasionally be straight.
Texture: It has a medium to coarse texture with a natural luster that polishes to a high shine.
Density: Jatoba is an exceptionally heavy and dense hardwood, with a specific gravity of around 0.91 and a density of approximately 910 kg/m³ at 12% moisture content.
Janka Hardness: With a Janka hardness rating of 2,350 lbf, it is nearly twice as hard as Northern Red Oak, making it incredibly resistant to dents and wear.
Workability: Due to its extreme density and interlocked grain, it can be challenging to work with. It has a high blunting effect on tool cutters, though it glues, stains, and finishes exceptionally well.
Common Uses
The superior hardness and rot resistance of Jatoba make it a premier choice for high-traffic and heavy-duty applications. Flooring: Its most famous application; it is prized for residential and commercial flooring because of its ability to withstand heavy foot traffic. Fine Furniture: Used in the construction of high-end cabinetry and heirloom-quality furniture that requires both strength and a striking visual presence. Exterior Construction: Because of its natural resistance to termites and decay, it is frequently used for decking, boat building, and railroad ties. Tool Handles: Its shock resistance and density make it an excellent choice for turned objects and tool handles.
