Sapele rough sawn lumber
Warm reddish-brown alternative with furniture and millwork appeal.
View optionCuban Mahogany Wood Guide
Wood species guide · Domestic hardwood species
Cuban Mahogany 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 nameSwietenia mahogani
Janka hardness930 lbf
Average dried weight37 lb/ft³
Best fitCarving
Overview
Why choose Cuban Mahogany?
Cuban Mahogany is a domestic hardwood species. Its natural range is Caribbean islands and the south of Florida. Common uses include carving, boatbuilding, musical instruments, veneer, turned objects, cabinetry and furniture.
Scientific nameSwietenia mahogani
DistributionCaribbean islands and the south of Florida
ShrinkageRadial: 3.0%, Tangential: 4.6%, Volumetric: 8.0%, T/R Ratio: 1.5
DurabilityDurability runs from moderate to high, depending on wood density and the conditions the tree grew in.
Cuban Mahogany colour, grain, and figure
Heartwood colour varies quite a bit, from pale pinkish brown up to a deeper reddish brown. In general, denser wood is darker.
Wavy, irregular, interlocked or straight grain are all possible. The texture is medium and even, and the natural luster is moderate.
Working notes
It is normally very easy to work and machines well, except for figured sections, which can tear out or chip. Cutters dull slightly.
Cuban Mahogany is reported to be a skin irritant, though serious reactions are rare.
Cuban Mahogany should be sold by project fit: colour, workability, durability, and the format the customer actually needs.
Best uses for Cuban Mahogany
Best projects
Common uses include carving, boatbuilding, musical instruments, veneer, turned objects, cabinetry and furniture.
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 Cuban Mahogany 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.
Cherry lumber collection
Domestic warm-colour alternative when the customer wants easier sourcing and workability.
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.
Cuban Mahogany FAQ
What is Cuban Mahogany best used for?
Common uses include carving, boatbuilding, musical instruments, veneer, turned objects, cabinetry and furniture. Match it to the exact board format, colour, hardness, and finish plan before buying.
Is Cuban Mahogany 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 Cuban Mahogany?
The buying section on this page links to any Cuban Mahogany 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.