Brazilian Cherry Wood: Origin, Benefits, and Comparison 2025
Introduction
Brazilian Cherry wood, also known as Jatoba, is a highly sought-after hardwood known for its rich color, durability, and versatility. It is commonly used in flooring, furniture, and cabinetry, making it a favorite among homeowners and builders. This article explores the origin, benefits, drawbacks, pricing, comparisons, and uses of Brazilian Cherry wood, helping you decide whether it’s the right choice for your needs.
What is Brazilian Cherry Wood?
Brazilian Cherry wood, scientifically called Hymenaea courbaril, is native to South America, particularly found in Brazil. Despite its name, it is not related to American Cherry wood but earned the name due to its reddish-brown color that deepens over time.
Key Features of Brazilian Cherry Wood:
- Janka Hardness Rating: 2,350 (much harder than Oak and American Cherry)
- Durability: Highly resistant to wear and tear
- Color: Ranges from orange-red to deep reddish-brown
- Grain Pattern: Fine, interlocked grain
- Common Uses: Flooring, furniture, musical instruments, and cutting boards
- Water Resistance: Naturally resistant but benefits from sealing
Brazilian Cherry Wood: Pros and Cons
✅ Advantages of Brazilian Cherry Wood
- Exceptional Hardness – One of the hardest woods, making it perfect for high-traffic areas like flooring.
- Beautiful Appearance – Rich, reddish tones that enhance over time.
- Durability – Resists dents, scratches, and wear better than many other hardwoods.
- Versatility – Used for floors, furniture, stairs, cabinets, and even guitars.
- Water-Resistant – More resistant to moisture compared to softer woods.
- Resistant to Pests – Less prone to termites and insects than other woods.
❌ Disadvantages of Brazilian Cherry Wood
- Expensive – Costs more than domestic hardwoods like Oak or Maple.
- Difficult to Cut and Install – Due to its hardness, cutting and nailing can be challenging.
- Color Darkens Over Time – May not be ideal if you prefer lighter shades.
- Requires Regular Maintenance – Needs periodic refinishing to retain its beauty.
Brazilian Cherry Wood vs. American Cherry
| Feature | Brazilian Cherry | American Cherry |
|---|---|---|
| Hardness (Janka Rating) | 2,350 | 950 |
| Color | Reddish-brown, deepens with time | Light reddish-brown |
| Durability | High | Moderate |
| Water Resistance | Good | Moderate |
| Price | Expensive | More affordable |
| Uses | Flooring, furniture, stairs | Furniture, cabinets, veneers |
Brazilian Cherry Wood Price
The price of Brazilian Cherry wood varies depending on quality, location, and processing.
- Flooring Cost: $5 – $9 per square foot
- Furniture Cost: $1000+ for high-end pieces
- Cutting Boards: $30 – $80
Prices can fluctuate based on market demand and availability.
What is Brazilian Cherry Wood Used For?
Brazilian Cherry wood is widely used for:
- Hardwood Flooring – Popular for homes due to its durability and aesthetics.
- Furniture – Ideal for tables, chairs, and cabinets.
- Cutting Boards – Due to its density and resistance to moisture.
- Musical Instruments – Used in making guitars and other string instruments.
- Cabinetry – Its deep, rich color adds elegance to kitchens and living spaces.
- Decking and Outdoor Use – Due to its high resistance to moisture and insects.
How to Maintain Brazilian Cherry Wood
- Cleaning: Use a damp mop with a wood-safe cleaner.
- Avoid Scratches: Use furniture pads and rugs.
- Refinishing: Sand and recoat every 5–10 years for flooring.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: UV exposure can accelerate color darkening.
- Use Proper Sealants: Enhances water resistance and longevity.
Brazilian Cherry Wood vs. Other Hardwoods
Brazilian Cherry vs. Walnut
- Brazilian Cherry: Harder, more durable, deep red tones.
- Walnut: Softer, easier to work with, dark chocolate brown color.
Brazilian Cherry vs. Oak
- Brazilian Cherry: Higher hardness, deeper color.
- Oak: More affordable, easier to refinish, neutral tones.
FAQs About Brazilian Cherry Wood
What is Brazilian Cherry Wood Used For?
It is commonly used in flooring, furniture, staircases, and cutting boards due to its durability and rich color.
Is Brazilian Cherry Wood Expensive?
Yes, it is pricier than domestic hardwoods like Oak and Maple due to its high durability and exotic nature.
Does Brazilian Cherry Scratch Easily?
No, it is one of the hardest woods available, making it highly resistant to scratches and dents.
Is Brazilian Cherry Waterproof?
It has natural water resistance but benefits from sealing to prevent damage over time.
How Do You Clean Brazilian Cherry Wood Floors?
Use a damp mop with a gentle wood cleaner. Avoid excessive water as it can damage the finish.
Does Brazilian Cherry Wood Darken Over Time?
Yes, exposure to sunlight deepens its reddish hue over the years.
What is the Hardest Wood in the World?
While Brazilian Cherry is very hard, Australian Buloke is considered the hardest with a Janka rating of 5,060.
Is Brazilian Cherry Good for Furniture?
Yes, it is an excellent choice for furniture due to its strength and durability.
Can You Stain Brazilian Cherry Wood?
Yes, but due to its rich natural color, staining may not be necessary.
How Do You Protect Brazilian Cherry Wood?
Regular cleaning, avoiding sharp objects, and using a protective finish can extend its lifespan.
What Wood is Similar to Brazilian Cherry?
Jatoba, IPE, and Mahogany have similar hardness and appearance characteristics.
What Are the Disadvantages of Cherry Wood?
It can be expensive, darkens over time, and requires maintenance to keep its beauty.
Is Cherry Wood Stronger Than Oak?
No, oak is generally stronger and more resilient to environmental changes.
How Durable is Brazilian Cherry Wood?
Extremely durable, lasting over 50 years with proper care.
Is Brazilian Cherry Good for Outdoor Use?
Yes, but it must be properly sealed for longevity.
Can You Sand and Refinish Brazilian Cherry Floors?
Yes, they can be sanded and refinished multiple times.
Is Brazilian Cherry Wood Eco-Friendly?
It is harvested sustainably in some areas, but always check for certification.
What’s the Lifespan of Brazilian Cherry Wood Floors?
With care, they can last over 50 years.
Is Brazilian Cherry Wood Heavy?
Yes, it is a dense hardwood, making it more challenging to work with.
Conclusion
Brazilian Cherry wood is a premium hardwood known for its durability, beauty, and versatility. While it comes at a higher price, its longevity and rich aesthetic make it a worthwhile investment for flooring and furniture. If you’re looking for a hardwood that balances strength and beauty, Brazilian Cherry wood is an excellent choice.
Would you choose Brazilian Cherry for your next home project? Let us know in the comments!