Brazilian Cherry (Jatoba) wood

Brazilian Cherry (Jatoba) (2026)

Hymenaea courbaril • Central & South America

Exotic Hardwood
$$
Prepared by Lumberama's Wood Species Team
|Sources & methodology

Brazilian Cherry is one of the hardest woods used for flooring with rich salmon-red color.

Brazilian Cherry (Jatoba) wood grain detail

Key Takeaways

  • Brazilian Cherry (Jatoba) has a Janka hardness of 2,350 lbf and density of 56 lbs/ft³.
  • Common uses include Hardwood flooring, Stair treads, Heavy-duty furniture.
  • Color: Salmon red to orangish-brown, darkens with age.
  • Low. Sweep and damp mop.
Janka Hardness
2,350 lbf
Density
56 lbs/ft³
Moisture
10-12%
Fire Rating
Class B
Durability
Class A - 20+ years
Price Range
$$

Color Characteristics

Salmon red to orangish-brown, darkens with age

Key Characteristics

  • •Very hard and dense
  • •Excellent wear resistance
  • •Interlocked grain
  • •Color darkens with UV
  • •High luster
  • •Good stability
  • •Natural decay resistance
  • •Contains silica

Common Applications

  • •Hardwood flooring
  • •Stair treads
  • •Heavy-duty furniture
  • •Tool handles
  • •Turnings
  • •Veneer
  • •Cabinets
  • •Commercial flooring

Maintenance Requirements

Low. Sweep and damp mop.

Advantages

  • Exceptional hardness
  • Very durable
  • Beautiful color
  • Excellent stability
  • Natural decay resistance
  • Good value
  • Wide availability
  • Long service life

Considerations

  • Darkens over time
  • Contains silica
  • Interlocked grain
  • Hard to finish evenly
  • Pre-drilling required
  • Color variation
  • Gum veins
  • Movement during acclimation

Frequently Asked Questions

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