Back to Species

WoodSwatch · The Wood Ledger

Brazilian Pau Rosa

Aniba duckei

Also known as: Brazilian Rosewood, Precious Rosewood, Cayenne Rosewood, Pau Rosa

Technical Spec Sheet

2026-07-14

Brazilian Pau Rosa wood grain

Reference grain swatch

Janka Hardness
1,780 lbf (7,918 N)
Avg. Dried Weight
870 kg/m³ (54 lb/ft³)
Specific Gravity
0.87
Type
Hardwood
Grain
Straight to slightly interlocked
Texture
Fine to medium, uniform
Durability
Very durable, excellent resistance to decay and insects
Region
South America
Sustainability
Restricted — Vulnerable - CITES Appendix II listed, harvest restrictions apply

Overview

Pau Rosa is a prized South American hardwood renowned for its exceptional durability, beautiful golden color, and distinctive rose-like fragrance. Highly valued for fine woodworking and musical instruments, it faces conservation concerns due to over-harvesting and is now regulated under international trade agreements.

The heartwood exhibits a warm yellow to golden brown color with occasional reddish tones, presenting fine uniform texture and straight to slightly interlocked grain. With density of approximately 870 kg/m³ when dried and Janka hardness of 1,780 lbf, it offers excellent strength. The wood demonstrates high dimensional stability and remarkable natural durability.

Workshop Notes

Blunting Effect

Moderate to high - density can dull cutting edges, use sharp tools

Gluing

Good gluing properties, though oily nature may require surface preparation

Finishing

Excellent - takes finishes beautifully, natural oils give warm glow

Steam Bending

Good steam bending properties when properly prepared

Scent

Distinctive pleasant rose-like aroma, particularly noticeable when machining

Assessment

Strengths

  • Exceptional durability
  • Beautiful appearance
  • Pleasant rose-like scent
  • High dimensional stability
  • Excellent decay resistance

Weaknesses

  • Limited availability due to regulations
  • Expensive
  • High density can dull cutting edges
  • Can be challenging to source legally

Common Uses

Fine furniture · Luxury cabinetry · Musical instruments · Decorative veneers · Turnery · Perfumery (rosewood oil)