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Imbuia

Phoebe porosa

Also known as: Brazilian Walnut, Canela Imbuia, Embuia

Technical Spec Sheet

2026-07-14

Imbuia wood grain

Reference grain swatch

Janka Hardness
1,100 lbf (4,893 N)
Avg. Dried Weight
710 kg/m³ (44 lb/ft³)
Specific Gravity
0.71
Type
Hardwood
Grain
Usually straight, sometimes interlocked
Texture
Fine and even
Durability
Moderately durable; Class 3 resistance to fungi; durable against dry wood borers
Region
South America
Sustainability
Caution — Check sustainable sources; native to southern Brazil; some populations under pressure

Overview

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.

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

Good gluing properties with standard adhesives

Finishing

Excellent - takes oil, varnish, and polish well

Steam Bending

Moderate - straight grain sections bend adequately

Scent

Pleasant cedar-like aroma when worked

Assessment

Strengths

  • Attractive figure
  • Good workability
  • Stable when dry
  • Pleasant scent

Weaknesses

  • Slow drying
  • Risk of collapse during drying
  • Can cause allergic reactions

Common Uses

Cabinetwork · Furniture · Flooring · Interior paneling · Staircases · Veneer