Maple lumber collection
Clean, pale domestic alternative for furniture and utility builds.
View optionBrownheart Wood Guide
Wood species guide · Imported specialty hardwood
Brownheart is best understood by how it looks, how it works, and where it should be used. This guide explains the practical buying details before sending you to the right Kingma products.
Scientific nameVouacapoua americana
Janka hardness1,880 lbf
Average dried weight62 lb/ft³
Best fitCabinetry
Overview
Why choose Brownheart?
Brownheart is an imported specialty hardwood. Its natural range is Northeastern South America. Common uses include cabinetry, furniture, turned objects, heavy construction and flooring.
Scientific nameVouacapoua americana
DistributionNortheastern South America
ShrinkageRadial: 4.6%, Tangential: 6.7%, Volumetric: 11.9%, T/R Ratio: 1.5
DurabilityThe wood is very durable with good insect resistance.
Brownheart colour, grain, and figure
The heartwood is medium to dark brown, at times with a reddish tint. Lighter brown parenchyma lines run throughout and give a contrasting look.
The grain runs from straight to slightly irregular. The texture is even and medium with moderate natural luster.
Working notes
It is moderately hard to work because of its density, and it tends to dull cutters.
Serious reactions are rare, but skin irritation has been reported from brownheart.
Brownheart should be sold by project fit: colour, workability, durability, and the format the customer actually needs.
Best uses for Brownheart
Best projects
Common uses include cabinetry, furniture, turned objects, heavy construction and flooring.
Use caution
Avoid specifying it by name alone; confirm board size, moisture, colour, figure, and the project environment before buying.
Finish strategy
Test finishes on offcuts first, especially when colour, blotching, outdoor exposure, or grain filling matters.
Buying note
Choose boards, slabs, plywood, blanks, or posts based on the project rather than species name alone.
Shop path
Buying Brownheart from Kingma
Start with the direct species match when Kingma sells it. If stock rotates, use the closest live collection or a clearly explained alternative.
Live edge slabs
Use when the customer cares more about slab format and visual impact than this exact species.
View optionSimilar woods and alternatives
If Kingma does not have an exact match online, use the buying links below as practical alternatives only when the colour, grain, hardness, or project environment makes sense.
Brownheart FAQ
What is Brownheart best used for?
Common uses include cabinetry, furniture, turned objects, heavy construction and flooring. Match it to the exact board format, colour, hardness, and finish plan before buying.
Is Brownheart beginner friendly?
It depends on density, grain direction, and tooling. Test cuts on offcuts first, and choose Maple, Cherry, Walnut, or Poplar when easier machining is the priority.
Does Kingma sell Brownheart?
The buying section on this page links to any Brownheart Kingma has in stock and to the closest alternatives. Stock changes often, so call (780) 229-7681 or visit the yard at 4607 91 Ave NW, Edmonton to check what is in today.