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African Mahogany

Khaya ivorensis

Also known as: Khaya, Nigerian Mahogany, Lagos Mahogany

Technical Spec Sheet

2026-07-14

African Mahogany wood grain

Reference grain swatch

Janka Hardness
1,070 lbf (4,760 N)
Avg. Dried Weight
520 kg/m³ (32 lb/ft³)
Specific Gravity
0.52
Type
Hardwood
Grain
Interlocked, often produces ribbon stripe figure when quartersawn
Texture
Medium to coarse
Durability
Durable, good resistance to decay and insect attack
Region
Africa
Sustainability
Caution — Concerns about sustainability, check for certified sources

Overview

African Mahogany is a popular substitute for genuine Central American mahogany, offering similar working properties and appearance at lower cost. Native to tropical West Africa, it has become one of the continent's most important export timbers, though concerns about sustainable harvesting practices have led to increased regulation and certification requirements.

The heartwood is pale pink when fresh, maturing to reddish-brown with age, featuring a medium to coarse texture. Interlocked grain is common, producing attractive ribbon stripe figure when quartersawn. Density averages 520 kg/m³ when dried with a Janka hardness of 1,070 lbf, making it moderately dense and strong.

Workshop Notes

Blunting Effect

Low to moderate - can contain silica which dulls tools

Gluing

Good gluing properties

Finishing

Excellent - takes finishes beautifully, especially oil-based

Steam Bending

Moderate steam bending characteristics

Scent

Pleasant, slightly cedar-like aroma when worked

Assessment

Strengths

  • Good stability
  • Beautiful appearance
  • Durable
  • Widely available

Weaknesses

  • Interlocked grain can cause tearout
  • Sustainability concerns
  • Can have mineral deposits

Common Uses

Fine furniture · Cabinetry · Boat building · Musical instruments · Veneer · Interior trim