Brazilian Cherry, or jatoba wood, is one of the most popular and exotic hardwoods in the world. Jatoba is a popular choice for flooring, furniture, cabinets, and other specialist woodworking projects because of its beautiful reddish-brown color, great toughness, and long-lasting sturdiness.
This article covers all you need to know about jatoba wood, including its features, usage, pros and downsides, and answers to common questions.
What is Jatoba Wood?
Most of the time, jatoba comes from Hymenaea courbaril, which is one of the species in the Hymenaea genus. Jatoba trees are native to Central and South America, especially Brazil, Peru, and the Caribbean.
They may grow up to 130 feet tall and 4 feet wide. In North America, the wood is often sold as “Brazilian Cherry” because it is a deep, cherry-like color. However, it is not related to actual cherry (Prunus species).
Appearance and Grain
Color: When it is freshly milled, jatoba is a pale orange-brown or salmon color. Over time and when exposed to light, it changes to a dark reddish-brown tint. The heartwood is a distinct color than the sapwood, which is a lot lighter and frequently a pale yellow or gray.
Grain and Texture: Jatoba usually has a grain that is interlocked or wavy, a medium to coarse texture, and a natural shine. The wood frequently has lovely streaks and accents that make it look dramatic and rich.
Figure: Some boards have ribbon-like or curled shapes, especially when they are quartersawn. This makes jatoba a popular choice for decorative veneers and high-end furniture.
Hardness and Durability
Janka Hardness: Jatoba is very hard, having a Janka rating of about 2,350 lbf, which is more than twice as hard as red oak. This makes it very resistant to scratches, dents, and wear, making it perfect for places with a lot of foot traffic.
Density: Jatoba is a heavy wood that weighs about 56 lbs/ft³ (900 kg/m³) when dry. This density makes it stronger, but it also makes it heavier and often harder to deal with.
Durability: Jatoba is very strong and doesn’t rot, get fungal, or get eaten by bugs. It has natural oils and a high density, which makes it good for both indoor and some outdoor uses, but it is more often used indoors.
Workability
Machining:
Jatoba’s hardness can make it tough on tools, causing blades to dull quickly. Carbide-tipped blades and bits are recommended. The interlocked grain can lead to tearout, especially during planing or routing, so sharp tools and proper techniques are essential.
Gluing and Finishing:
Despite its density, jatoba glues well with modern adhesives. It accepts stains and finishes beautifully, often requiring only a clear coat to highlight its natural color. Pre-drilling is necessary for nailing or screwing to prevent splitting.
Sanding and Polishing:
Jatoba sands to a smooth, glassy finish and takes polish exceptionally well, enhancing its natural luster.
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Common Uses of Jatoba Wood
Flooring: Jatoba is one of the most preferred exotic hardwoods for flooring because it is strong, durable, and has a deep color.
Furniture: Used for high-end furniture, cabinets, and millwork, especially when strength and looks are important.
Stair Treads and Railings: Because it doesn’t wear out easily, it’s great for stairs and other places with a lot of foot traffic.
Veneer: Sliced for decorative veneers, paneling, and inlays.
Turned Objects: Because of its solidity and polish, it’s good for bowls, handles, and other specific pieces.
Tool Handles: Used for tool handles that need to be strong and shock-resistant.
Pros and Cons of Jatoba Wood
| Pros | Cons |
| Extremely hard and durable | Very heavy and dense |
| Beautiful, rich reddish-brown color | Can be difficult to machine and mill |
| Highly resistant to wear, rot, and insects | Dulls cutting tools quickly |
| Excellent for high-traffic areas | Prone to movement if not properly dried |
| Takes finishes and polishes very well | Can darken over time (color change) |
| Versatile for flooring, furniture, and more | More expensive than domestic hardwoods |
| Sustainable when sourced responsibly | Pre-drilling required for nails/screws |
Sustainability and Environmental Impact
Jatoba is not listed as a threatened species, and much of the jatoba exported for woodworking is harvested from managed forests in South America. However, as with all tropical hardwoods, it’s crucial to seek suppliers who source jatoba responsibly, with certifications like FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) to ensure sustainable forestry practices.
Maintenance and Care
Cleaning: Use a soft, damp cloth for regular cleaning. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
Refinishing: Jatoba floors and furniture can be refinished to restore their original luster if they become dull or scratched.
Humidity Control: Due to its density, jatoba can be prone to movement (expansion/contraction) with drastic humidity changes. Maintain stable indoor humidity to prevent warping or gaps.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is cherry wood and jatoba the same wood ?
No, jatoba is not a type of real cherry (Prunus species). It is dubbed “Brazilian Cherry” because it is the same color, but it is considerably tougher and denser.
Is jatoba a suitable choice for flooring ?
Yes, jatoba is one of the greatest hardwoods for floors since it is very hard, lasts a long time, and has a gorgeous color. It can handle a lot of foot traffic and doesn’t get scratched or dented easily.
Does jatoba wood change color over time?
Yes, jatoba darkens and deepens in color with exposure to light, developing a richer, more uniform reddish-brown hue.
Is jatoba wood difficult to work with?
Jatoba can be challenging to machine due to its hardness and density, which dulls tools quickly. Sharp, carbide-tipped tools and pre-drilling are recommended.
Is jatoba wood sustainable?
Jatoba is not endangered, but always choose wood from certified, responsibly managed sources to protect tropical forests.
Can jatoba be used outdoors?
Jatoba is naturally resistant to rot and insects, but it’s best used in protected outdoor settings or with proper sealing, as it can still be affected by weathering and UV exposure.
How does jatoba compare to oak or maple?
Jatoba is much harder and denser than oak or maple, making it more durable but also heavier and tougher to work. Its color is more vibrant and exotic.
Does jatoba wood have any odor or toxicity?
Jatoba has no characteristic odor and is generally considered non-toxic, but as with all woods, dust protection is recommended during machining.
What finish is best for jatoba wood?
Clear finishes, such as polyurethane or oil, are ideal for showcasing jatoba’s natural color and luster. Always test finishes on a sample first.
Final Thoughts
Jatoba wood is one of the best exotic hardwoods because it is beautiful, hard, and long-lasting. If you want a wood that will last for generations, then jatoba will be a great choice. It’s great for making exquisite furniture, installing new floors, and more. If you get jatoba wood from a reliable source and take care of it properly, it can add warmth, luxury, and strength to any area or project.