Mahogany Identity card

Scientific name: Khaya

Classification: Meliaceae Family

Number of species: 7

African mahogany

Scientific name: Khaya Ivorensis

Maximum tree height: 60 m

Maximum tree diameter: 2 m

Density: 0,45 to 0,55

Wood characteristics: Pale pinkish brown to pale red heartwood color. Creamy white sapwood color. Soft and light wood. Little nervous. Moderately durable heartwood. Mid-fine grain. Counter-thread more or less marked and regular. Sapwood thin from 3 to 7cm.

Mechanical properties: Medium mechanical resistance. Elastic and impact resistant. Good transverse cohesion.

Technological properties: Easy to work with all tools. Wax, paint, glue and varnish without difficulty. Nails and screws drive in and hold well.

Comment: Rare and expensive wood.