Nyatoh Wood Guide 2026
Palaquium spp.
Nyatoh is a widely available Southeast Asian hardwood often used as an affordable mahogany substitute. Its pinkish-brown to reddish-brown heartwood has a generally straight grain and fine texture that machines and finishes well. Moderate in hardness and density, Nyatoh is commonly found in furniture, interior millwork, plywood, and light construction where a warm mahogany-like appearance is desired at a budget-friendly price point.
Wood Appearance
Natural Grain
Finished Surface
Key Takeaways
- Density: 38 lbs/ft³
- Classification: Hardwood
- Origin: Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines, Papua New Guinea
- Price: ~$4.75 per board foot
- Common uses include Furniture, interior millwork, plywood
Quick Facts
Representative reference values — natural wood varies by growing region, moisture content and individual board.
Durability, Stability & Workability
Texture: Straight to slightly interlocked grain with a medium texture.
Workability: Generally easy to machine despite interlocked grain.
Fastening: Pre-drilling recommended for screws and nails.
Finishing: Finishes smoothly though filler is recommended for open pores.
Color change: Darkens slightly to a reddish-brown with age.
Insect resistance: Moderate resistance to termites but prone to fungal decay.
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 Nyatoh. 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 ranging from 4 to 12 inches. | Random lengths typically 8 to 16 feet. | Request this size |
| 5/4 | 1-1/4" | 1-1/16" | Random widths ranging from 4 to 12 inches. | Random lengths typically 8 to 16 feet. | Request this size |
| 6/4 | 1-1/2" | 1-5/16" | Random widths ranging from 4 to 12 inches. | Random lengths typically 8 to 16 feet. | Request this size |
| 8/4 | 2" | 1-3/4" | Random widths ranging from 4 to 12 inches. | Random lengths typically 8 to 16 feet. | Request this size |
- 4/4rough 1"
- Surfaced
- 13/16" (3/4" common)
- Widths
- Random widths ranging from 4 to 12 inches.
- Lengths
- Random lengths typically 8 to 16 feet.
- 5/4rough 1-1/4"
- Surfaced
- 1-1/16"
- Widths
- Random widths ranging from 4 to 12 inches.
- Lengths
- Random lengths typically 8 to 16 feet.
- 6/4rough 1-1/2"
- Surfaced
- 1-5/16"
- Widths
- Random widths ranging from 4 to 12 inches.
- Lengths
- Random lengths typically 8 to 16 feet.
- 8/4rough 2"
- Surfaced
- 1-3/4"
- Widths
- Random widths ranging from 4 to 12 inches.
- Lengths
- Random lengths typically 8 to 16 feet.
Availability notes: Imported as a substitute for more expensive hardwoods.
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: Pinkish brown to medium reddish brown heartwood; lighter sapwood with gradual transition
Grain: Straight to slightly interlocked grain with a fine, even texture
Common Uses
- Furniture
- interior millwork
- plywood
- light construction
- joinery
- molding
- veneer
- boat interiors
Key Characteristics
Also known as: Nato, Nyatuh, Red Nyatoh, Manikara (trade)
Availability: In Stock
Advantages
- Janka indentation hardness: 770 lbf
- Heartwood decay rating: Moderately Durable
- Sourced from Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines, Papua New Guinea
- Affordable pricing
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 Nyatoh is unavailable or over budget.
Related Species
Explore More on Lumberama
Popular Applications
Comparisons
Calculators & Tools
Related Blog Posts
Heat Pump Guide: Types, Cost & How They Work
Heat and cool your home efficiently with one system.
Read articleAir Conditioning Guide: Types, Cost & Efficiency
Stay cool and save money on cooling.
Read articleWater Heater Guide: Types, Cost & Replacement
Choose the best water heater for your home.
Read article