Name |
African Mahogany (Khaya spp.) |
Type |
Hardwood. |
Other Names |
Also known as akuk, bandoro, benin mahogany, degema, lagos wood, acajou, khaya, Nigerian mahogany, Ivory Coast mahogany, and Gold Coast mahogany. |
Sources |
Grows throughout West Africa. |
Appearance |
Interlocked or straight grain, often with a ribbon figure, and a moderately coarse texture. Creamy-white sapwood and reddish brown heartwood, often with a purple cast. |
Physical Props |
Moderately heavy and hard with medium bending and crushing strength, low stiffness and shock resistance, moderate decay resistance, and good stability in use. Poor steam bending rating. |
Working Props |
Works fairly easily although interlocked, woolly grain can be troublesome. Glues, nails, and screws satisfactorily. Stains and polishes to an excellent finish. |
Uses |
Used for furniture, cabinetry, high class joinery, interior trim, boat building, vehicle bodies, paneling, plywood, and decorative veneers. |
Comments |
Generally cheaper and more abundant than American mahogany. |