The valuable hardwood called mahogany is obtained from many locations around the world. According to tradition, it was first introduced to England from the West Indies when Sir Walter Raleigh had a mahogany table made for Queen Elizabeth I; the popularity of the wood increased steadily in the 18th century. This rich wood is close-grained and resistant to termites.
Where it Grows
Grows from southern Mexico to Brazil.
Generally straight grained, but sometimes roey, wavy, or curly, with a fine to coarse, uniform texture. Pale pink to dark reddish brown heartwood and yellowish white sapwood.
Variable, but generally moderate weight, hardness, and strength. Low stiffness and shock resistance. Very good stability and decay resistance. Moderate steam bending rating. Excellent working properties, including cutting, turning, shaping, sanding, and gluing. Finishes easily with a variety of finishes, although filling may be required for ultimate smoothness.
- Specific Gravity: 0.48-0.58
- Density: 36 lbs/cu. ft.
- Janka: 700-800 lbs
- Radial Shrinkage: 3-3.1%
- Tangential Shrink. 4.6-5%
- Volumetric ShrinK. 8-8.7%
- Texture: medium, uniform
- Color: medium reddish brown
- Appearance: very attractive even color and grain, lighter than many people realize, darkens with age.
- Grain: straight to wavy/swirly
- Stability: Very stable
- Durability: Heartwood very durable, high resistance to fungi, moderate resistance to dry-wood termites