African Mahogany / Khaya Wood Guide 2026
Khaya spp.
Typically described as versatile mahogany substitute
Wood Appearance
Natural Grain
Finished Surface
Key Takeaways
- Density: 34 lbs/ft³
- Classification: Hardwood
- Origin: Ivory Coast;Nigeria
- Common uses include Furniture, Doors, Cabinetry
Quick Facts
Representative reference values — natural wood varies by growing region, moisture content and individual board.
Durability, Stability & Workability
Texture: Medium to coarse
Workability: Machines well, though interlocked grain can tear out when planing.
Fastening: Nails and screws well; pre-drilling generally not required.
Finishing: Takes stains and clear finishes well; grain filler improves smoothness.
Color change: Pinkish brown darkens to a deeper reddish brown with light exposure.
Insect resistance: Moderate resistance; not immune to termites
Ratings and published values are representative reference figures. Natural wood varies with growing region, moisture content and individual boards — treat them as guidance, not guarantees.
Common Sizes & Availability
Typical market availability for African Mahogany / Khaya. Lumberama is a sourcing marketplace — actual stock, widths and lengths vary by supplier. Request a quote to confirm what's available for your project.
| Thickness | Rough | Typical surfaced | Typical widths | Common lengths | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4/4 | 1" | 13/16" (3/4" common) | Random widths 6–12 in.; wide boards commonly available | Random lengths 8–16 ft | Request this size |
| 5/4 | 1-1/4" | 1-1/16" | Random widths 6–12 in.; wide boards commonly available | Random lengths 8–16 ft | Request this size |
| 6/4 | 1-1/2" | 1-5/16" | Random widths 6–12 in.; wide boards commonly available | Random lengths 8–16 ft | Request this size |
| 8/4 | 2" | 1-3/4" | Random widths 6–12 in.; wide boards commonly available | Random lengths 8–16 ft | Request this size |
- 4/4rough 1"
- Surfaced
- 13/16" (3/4" common)
- Widths
- Random widths 6–12 in.; wide boards commonly available
- Lengths
- Random lengths 8–16 ft
- 5/4rough 1-1/4"
- Surfaced
- 1-1/16"
- Widths
- Random widths 6–12 in.; wide boards commonly available
- Lengths
- Random lengths 8–16 ft
- 6/4rough 1-1/2"
- Surfaced
- 1-5/16"
- Widths
- Random widths 6–12 in.; wide boards commonly available
- Lengths
- Random lengths 8–16 ft
- 8/4rough 2"
- Surfaced
- 1-3/4"
- Widths
- Random widths 6–12 in.; wide boards commonly available
- Lengths
- Random lengths 8–16 ft
Availability notes: Widely available as a genuine mahogany substitute for doors, windows and millwork.
How lumber sizes are described
- Rough (4/4, 8/4…)
- Hardwood thickness in quarters of an inch as sawn, before surfacing. 4/4 = 1" rough.
- Surfaced (S2S/S4S)
- Thickness after planing. 4/4 typically finishes at 13/16" or 3/4".
- Nominal vs. actual
- Construction lumber is sold by nominal size; a 2x6 measures about 1-1/2" x 5-1/2".
- Random width / length
- Most hardwood is sold as it comes from the log — widths and lengths vary within a range rather than being fixed.
Color & Grain
Color: Pale pink to reddish brown; ribbon-stripe on quartersawn
Grain: Straight to interlocked
Common Uses
- Furniture
- Doors
- Cabinetry
- Millwork
- Paneling
Key Characteristics
Also known as: Khaya;Acajou d'Afrique
Availability: In Stock
Advantages
- Janka indentation hardness: 830 lbf
- Heartwood decay rating: Moderately Durable
- Sourced from Ivory Coast;Nigeria
Considerations
- Hardness does not establish decay resistance or structural design strength
- Availability may vary
Frequently Asked Questions
Alternatives to Consider
Species commonly specified for similar applications when African Mahogany / Khaya is unavailable or over budget.
Related Species
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