Brazilian cherry wood, also known as Jatoba, is a hardwood from the rainforests of Central and South America, the West Indies, and Mexico. It is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 130 feet tall. Brazilian cherry wood is often used in flooring due to its striking reddish-brown color and unique grain pattern. It is also used for furniture, cabinets, and decorative objects.
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Brazilian Cherry Wood Benefits 2023
One of the prime benefits of Brazilian cherry wood is its durability. It has a Janka hardness rating of 2350, making it one of the strongest hardwoods available. Additionally, this hardwood’s beautiful, natural appearance makes it one of the most versatile woods available on the market. The best thing is that it is available in various colors and patterns.
However, Brazilian Cherry wood is also one of the priciest types of hardwood available on the market. Brazilian cherry wood can also contain silica, which can appear as a milky discoloration on the surface of the wood, but this is a natural occurrence and does not affect the wood’s strength or durability.
Different types of Brazilian cherry wood
- Brazilian Cherry (Jatoba)
Brazilian cherry is one of the most popular types of exotic hardwoods used for flooring. Its heartwood is a beautiful reddish-brown, making it one of the toughest hardwoods available.
- Azucar Huayo
Azucar Huayo is another name for Brazilian cherry wood. It is known for its cinnamon-brown heartwood with darker streaks highlighting its grain and figure.
- Paquio
Paquio is another name for Brazilian cherry wood. It has a similar appearance to Jatoba and is known for its durability and resistance to wear and tear.
- Hymenaea courbaril
Hymenaea courbaril is a legume species sometimes referred to as Brazilian cherry wood. It is also known as Jatoba, locust, or courbaril. It grows in the rainforests of Brazil and typically reaches heights of 100 to 130 feet.
- What are the uses of Brazilian Cherry wood?
Take a look at some of the common uses of Brazilian Cherry wood.
- Flooring
Brazilian Cherry wood is a popular choice for hardwood flooring due to its extreme durability and resistance to scratches, dents, and imperfections. It is often used in new homes and is considered an attractive and viable choice for flooring.
- Furniture
Brazilian Cherry wood is also commonly used in furniture making due to its durability and stability. This wood is used primarily for creating tables, chairs, and cabinets.
Brazilian Cherry wood’s rich color helps make small rooms look bigger and more open. It also does not have prominent knots or graining that can distract from the overall design of the furniture.
- Interior finishing
Brazilian Cherry wood is a heavy and mechanically strong wood used for interior finishing, such as beams, rafters/joists, wooden planks, door frames, parquet and flooring boards, and decorating wooden sheets.
- Industrial Uses
Brazilian Cherry wood is solid, shock-resistant, and rot-resistant, making it a popular choice for industrial applications such as railroad ties, wooden gears, tool handles, sleepers, and double tee junctions in external engineering.
- Other uses
Brazilian Cherry wood is also used in boat interiors, musical instruments, turnings and carvings, and interior trim.
Remember, Brazilian Cherry wood is not suitable for use in wet or high-humidity locations such as bathrooms or laundry rooms as it can absorb water naturally.
Does Brazilian cherry wood change color?
Brazilian cherry wood undergoes a color change over time. When freshly milled, it appears in color, ranging from salmon to blond. But when Brazilian wood is exposed to light, it will rapidly change to either burgundy or a dark brown color.
The color change occurs due to a process known as oxidation. Brazilian cherry wood is exceptionally light-sensitive. This hardwood is resistant to dents and scratches. The variation of colors in Brazilian cherry wood calls attention to the intricate wood grains of this exotic hardwood flooring.
When unfinished, the hardwood has a creamy pinkish-red color that, after staining and finishing, becomes a warmer, richer reddish-brown with streaked tones.
Is Brazilian cherry wood suitable for cutting boards?
Brazilian cherry wood is a great option for cutting boards. The unique color and hardness make it an excellent choice for cutting boards.
Cherry wood is highly antimicrobial and non-toxic, which makes it safe for food preparation. Also, Brazilian cherry wood is known for its durability, which means it will withstand the rigors of regular use without becoming damaged or warped.
Brazilian cherry wood hardness
According to the Janka hardness test, Brazilian cherry has a rating of 2350 pounds-force, making it harder than domestic red oak (1290) and many other commonly used hardwoods.
Due to its high density and interlocked grain, Brazilian cherry can be difficult to saw, and plane and nailing may require pre-drilling and angle adjustment. However, it sands well and can be finished and stained without issues.
Is Brazilian cherry wood expensive?
Brazilian cherry wood is considered a pricy hardwood flooring option. However, its cost varies depending on the specific type and format of the wood.
Brazilian cherry wood costs between $2 to $6.5 per square foot, plus installation charges.
The typical prices per square foot for Brazilian cherry in its varied formats are the following.
- Engineered wood $6.20 per square foot
- Prefinished at $5.50 per square foot
- Unfinished at $4.75 to $5 per square foot
- Laminate at $2 per square foot
- Vinyl at $1 to $5 per square foot
Compared to other wood species, Brazilian cherry is more expensive than some, such as maples, but cheaper than others, like mahogany and teak. Brazilian walnut hardwood flooring is a viable alternative for those looking for a similar look to Brazilian cherry but cannot afford its cost.
How to care for Brazilian cherry wood?
Proper maintenance is the key to ensuring the longevity and beauty of Brazilian cherry wood flooring. Here are some valuable tips for Brazilian cherry wood maintenance.
- Dust and dirt particles can scratch the surface of the wood over time. Regular dusting and vacuuming with a soft-bristled brush attachment can prevent this and keep the floors looking clean and polished.
- Clean any spills immediately with a wet cloth or mop to prevent water damage or staining.
- Don’t use excessive water to clean the floors; it can damage the wood and leave a discoloring residue. Instead, use a damp mop with warm water and mild detergent. Ensure to wring out the mop well before applying it to the floor so it is not too wet.
- Use a wood floor cleaner that is specifically designed for Brazilian cherry floors. You can also make your cleaning solution using a few drops of dishwashing liquid and warm water.
- Placing mats and rugs in doorways, exteriors, and interiors can help prevent the tracking of grit, dirt, and sand, which can damage the wood.
- Place furniture pads under the legs of chairs, tables, and other furniture to prevent scratches and dents on the floor.
- Over time, Brazilian cherry floors may require refinishing to restore their original shine and luster.
- Sanding and refinishing the floors can help remove any scratches, dents, or stains and give them a new lease of life.
Final words
Brazilian Cherry wood is durable and versatile hardwood that is used for a variety of wooden tasks. From furniture to kitchen utensils, cherry wood is the best option to enjoy the long-lasting performance of your wooden craft. However, this hardwood is expensive compared to other woods and needs proper maintenance. Therefore, if you want to invest in Brazilian cherry wood, it is essential to take precautionary measures.
