Imbuia
Phoebe porosa
Also known as: Brazilian Walnut, Canela Imbuia, Embuia
Imbuia is a fine-textured Brazilian hardwood prized for cabinetwork and furniture. Its olive-brown to chocolate heartwood, often with darker streaks, and pleasant cedar-like scent have made it a popular choice for interior joinery and decorative veneer.
Botanical Profile
Phoebe porosa is a tree in the Lauraceae family, native to southern Brazil, particularly Paraná and Santa Catarina. It grows in Atlantic Forest regions. The genus Phoebe includes several species; P. porosa is the primary commercial timber known as Imbuia.
Physical Properties
Heartwood is olive-brown to chocolate brown with darker streaks. Sapwood is pale yellowish. Density averages 710 kg/m³ when air-dried, with a Janka hardness of approximately 1,100 lbf. Fine, even texture with straight or interlocked grain.
Workshop Notes
Blunting Effect
Low to moderate - generally works well with sharp tools
Gluing Advice
Good gluing properties with standard adhesives
Finishing
Excellent - takes oil, varnish, and polish well
Steam Bending
Moderate - straight grain sections bend adequately
Historical Context
Imbuia has been used in Brazil for furniture and cabinetry since the 19th century. It gained international recognition for high-end cabinetwork and architectural millwork. Overharvesting in native forests has led to increased reliance on plantation and sustainable sources.
Technical Specs
Olive-brown to chocolate brown heartwood with darker streaks; pale yellowish sapwood
Check sustainable sources; native to southern Brazil; some populations under pressure