Jatoba, Brazilian Cherry

Heartwood varies from a light orangish brown to a darker reddish brown, sometimes with contrasting darker grayish brown streaks. Color tends darken upon exposure to light. Sapwood is a light grayish yellow, clearly demarcated from the heartwood.

Grain is typically interlocked, with a medium to coarse texture. Good natural luster.

This wood species is not listed in the CITES Appendices, and is reported by the IUCN as being a species of least concern.

Although it’s widely named “Brazilian Cherry,” (mostly among flooring sellers), it bears little relation to the domestic Cherry (Prunus serotina) that is found in the US, except perhaps that its natural color closely matches the common stained color of domestic Cherry that has been aged/stained reddish-brown as seen on some interior furniture. Jatoba is exceptionally stiff, strong, and hard—representing a great value for woodworkers seeking high-strength, low-cost lumber. Wood Info from Copyright © 2008–2022 Eric Meier. https://www.wood-database.com