African Mahogany
Khaya ivorensis
African Mahogany is a popular substitute for genuine Central American mahogany, offering similar working properties and appearance at lower cost. Native to tropical West Africa, it has become one of the continent's most important export timbers, though concerns about sustainable harvesting practices have led to increased regulation and certification requirements.
Botanical Profile
Khaya ivorensis is a large deciduous tree reaching 40-50 meters in height with a straight, cylindrical trunk free of branches for much of its length. Native to West Africa from Ivory Coast to Ghana, it features compound leaves and produces winged seeds. Trees can reach impressive diameters of 2 meters or more.
Physical Properties
The heartwood is pale pink when fresh, maturing to reddish-brown with age, featuring a medium to coarse texture. Interlocked grain is common, producing attractive ribbon stripe figure when quartersawn. Density averages 520 kg/m³ when dried with a Janka hardness of 1,070 lbf, making it moderately dense and strong.
Workshop Notes
Blunting Effect
Low to moderate - can contain silica which dulls tools
Gluing Advice
Good gluing properties
Finishing
Excellent - takes finishes beautifully, especially oil-based
Steam Bending
Moderate steam bending characteristics
Historical Context
African Mahogany became commercially important in the early 20th century as supplies of genuine Central American mahogany declined. It was widely used during the mid-1900s for furniture and boat building. Today it remains popular but faces increasing scrutiny regarding sustainable harvesting, with certification programs becoming standard.
Technical Specs
Concerns about sustainability, check for certified sources