Ten Top Globally-Sourced Species to Know
Spotlight on: Cumaru / Brazilian Teak / Tonka
For those who are just beginning to dip their toes in the endless possibilities of globally-sourced wood products, International Wood has compiled a list of Ten Top Globally-Sourced Species to Know. In addition to expanded Source Boxes for each, we have invited Andy Johnson, assistant editor of Hardwood Market Report® and HMR Import Newsletter™, to give some background on markets for each species.
Cumaru is native to South America and often referred to as Brazilian Teak. The species is used mostly in decking, though some also goes into interior flooring. Demand typically ebbs and flows alongside deck installation season. Cumaru is less expensive than most tropical decking woods. When properly kiln-dried it is suitable for a similar range of environments to Ipé.
Spotlight on: Cumaru / Brazilian Teak / Tonka
Species: Dipteryx odorata
Origin: Central America and northern South America
Characteristics / Appearance: Sapwood is a yellowish-brown and is distinct from the heartwood, which is a reddish-brown to purple-hued brown. Exposure to light makes the overall color become more uniform. Typically interlocked grain with a medium coarse texture, Cumaru is exceptionally strong, very dimensionally stable, very dense, with a high shock resistance.
Janka Hardness Scale: 3,300 lbf (see chart on page 57)
Comments: Cumaru has excellent durability and weathering properties. Cumaru is able to stand up to almost anything the environment throws at it. Not only is it naturally resistant to mold, insects, and rot, Cumaru is one of the few hardwoods considered to be flame resistant due to its density. It not only lasts a long time, but has the beauty of an interior hardwood.
FSC-certified Cumaru was specified for the Scripps Institution of Oceanography Laboratory in San Diego.
Frequently asked questions
What is Cumaru wood commonly used for?+
Cumaru is used mostly in decking, though some also goes into interior flooring. Demand typically ebbs and flows alongside deck installation season.
Why is Cumaru called Brazilian Teak?+
Cumaru is native to South America and is often referred to as Brazilian Teak. It originates from Central America and northern South America.
How hard is Cumaru on the Janka hardness scale?+
Cumaru rates 3,300 lbf on the Janka Hardness Scale, making it exceptionally strong, very dense, and highly shock resistant.
Is Cumaru wood fire resistant?+
Cumaru is one of the few hardwoods considered to be flame resistant due to its density. It is also naturally resistant to mold, insects, and rot.
How does Cumaru compare in price to Ipé decking?+
Cumaru is less expensive than most tropical decking woods. When properly kiln-dried, it is suitable for a similar range of environments as Ipé.
What does Cumaru wood look like?+
Cumaru sapwood is yellowish-brown and distinct from the reddish-brown to purple-hued brown heartwood. It has typically interlocked grain with a medium coarse texture, and exposure to light makes the color more uniform.