Bloodwood Wood Guide 2026
Brosimum rubescens
Typically described as vivid red dense hardwood
Wood Appearance
Natural Grain
Finished Surface
Key Takeaways
- Density: 66 lbs/ft³
- Classification: Hardwood
- Origin: Brazil;Guyana
- Common uses include Inlays, Turnings, Accent pieces
Quick Facts
Representative reference values — natural wood varies by growing region, moisture content and individual board.
Durability, Stability & Workability
Texture: It is very dense and fine-textured with a consistent grain.
Workability: Its high density makes it difficult to work, often causing tools to dull quickly.
Fastening: Pre-drilling recommended for screws and nails.
Finishing: It sands to a high natural luster and takes oils well.
Color change: The deep red color tends to shift to a darker reddish-brown over time.
Insect resistance: The wood is highly resistant to decay and most insect attacks.
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 Bloodwood. 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) | Available in limited random widths due to small log sizes. | Available in shorter random lengths. | Request this size |
| 8/4 | 2" | 1-3/4" | Available in limited random widths due to small log sizes. | Available in shorter random lengths. | Request this size |
- 4/4rough 1"
- Surfaced
- 13/16" (3/4" common)
- Widths
- Available in limited random widths due to small log sizes.
- Lengths
- Available in shorter random lengths.
- 8/4rough 2"
- Surfaced
- 1-3/4"
- Widths
- Available in limited random widths due to small log sizes.
- Lengths
- Available in shorter random lengths.
Availability notes: Imported in limited quantities, often sold as specialty turning squares or lumber.
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: Bright vivid red; yellowish sapwood
Grain: Straight to interlocked; fine texture
Common Uses
- Inlays
- Turnings
- Accent pieces
- Flooring
- Knife handles
Key Characteristics
Also known as: Satine;Cardinal Wood
Availability: In Stock
Advantages
- Janka indentation hardness: 2,900 lbf
- Heartwood decay rating: Very Durable
- Sourced from Brazil;Guyana
- Excellent density for wear resistance
Considerations
- Pre-drilling recommended for fasteners
- 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 Bloodwood is unavailable or over budget.
Related Species
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