Muiracatiara
Astronium spp.
Muiracatiara, also known as Zebrawood or Tigerwood (though distinct from African Zebrawood), is a stunning South American hardwood featuring dramatic dark brown to black stripes over a lighter golden to reddish-brown background. This exceptionally hard and dense wood combines striking visual appeal with outstanding durability, making it ideal for premium flooring, decking, and fine furniture where both beauty and longevity are essential.
Janka Hardness
3540 lbf
Extremely hard
Density
67 lbs/ft³
Extremely dense
Shrinkage
Moderate (7.8% tangential, 4.9% radial)
Good stability
Appearance
Color: Golden yellow to reddish-brown heartwood with distinctive dark brown to black streaks creating dramatic striping patterns. Color deepens with age.
Grain: Interlocked to wavy grain with medium texture. Dramatic color contrast creates striking visual patterns.
Key Characteristics
- •Extremely hard and dense
- •Dramatic striped appearance
- •Excellent natural durability
- •Outstanding wear resistance
- •Good dimensional stability
- •Resists decay and insects
Common Applications
Maintenance
Extremely durable requiring minimal maintenance. For flooring, periodic cleaning maintains appearance. Outdoor applications benefit from annual oiling to preserve color contrast.
Advantages
- +One of hardest woods available
- +Stunning dramatic grain patterns
- +Exceptional durability and longevity
- +Excellent stability when properly dried
- +Superior resistance to wear and traffic
- +Natural resistance to decay and pests
Considerations
- •Extreme hardness makes working very difficult
- •Requires carbide-tipped tools
- •Pre-drilling essential for all fasteners
- •High price point
- •Limited availability in wider boards
- •Color contrast may fade slightly with UV exposure