Honduras Rosewood
Dalbergia stevensonii
Also known as: Honduran Rosewood, Nógál, Belize Rosewood
Honduras Rosewood is a prized Central American tonewood from Belize and Guatemala, valued for marimbas and musical instruments. Its brownish-mauve heartwood, low shrinkage, and excellent acoustic properties have made it a sought-after substitute for Brazilian Rosewood despite limited availability.
Botanical Profile
Dalbergia stevensonii is a medium-sized tree in the Fabaceae family, native to Belize, Guatemala, and southern Mexico. It reaches 15–30 meters in height with trunk diameters of 0.6–1 meter. It grows slowly in seasonally flooded tropical lowland forests.
Physical Properties
Heartwood ranges from light brown to deep purplish brown, with brownish-mauve most common. Density averages 1,025 kg/m³ when dried, with a Janka hardness of 2,200 lbf. Fine to medium texture with straight to slightly interlocked grain. Very low shrinkage rates.
Workshop Notes
Blunting Effect
High - dense, oily wood dulls cutting edges quickly
Gluing Advice
Can be problematic due to oil content; surface preparation recommended
Finishing
Takes finishes well; oil-based finishes enhance natural color
Steam Bending
Moderate - straight grain sections bend reasonably
Historical Context
Honduras Rosewood has been used for marimbas and xylophones since the early 20th century. Its acoustic properties and stability made it a preferred tonewood. Overharvesting and habitat loss have led to CITES listing and conservation concerns.
Technical Specs
Light brown to deep purplish brown heartwood; brownish-mauve most common; pale cream to yellowish sapwood
CITES Appendix II; limited range in Belize and Guatemala; population decline from illegal logging