Maple lumber collection
Clean, pale domestic alternative for furniture and utility builds.
View optionMonkeypod Wood Guide
Wood species guide · Imported specialty hardwood
Monkeypod 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 nameAlbizia saman (syn.
Janka hardness900 lbf
Average dried weight38 lb/ft³
Best fitSmall specialty pieces
Overview
Why choose Monkeypod?
Monkeypod is an imported specialty hardwood. Its natural range is Central America and South America; planted and now established in many other tropical regions. Common uses include small specialty pieces, guitars and ukuleles, furniture, cabinetry, carving, millwork and trim, plywood and veneer.
Scientific nameAlbizia saman (syn.
DistributionCentral America and South America; planted and now established in many other tropical regions
ShrinkageRadial: 2.0%, Tangential: 3.4%, Volumetric: 6.0%, T/R Ratio: 1.7
DurabilityRated durable to very durable against decay, and most insects leave it alone.
Monkeypod colour, grain, and figure
The wood is golden to dark brown, in places with darker streaks. The sapwood is usually thin, yellow-white and sharply separated from the heartwood.
The grain is typically straight but may be interlocked or wavy. Pores are open and run from medium to large, the wood is medium to coarse in texture, and the sheen is moderate.
Working notes
Generally easy with hand tools and machinery, but interlocked grain can leave fuzzy or torn surfaces when planing. It glues and finishes well.
Severe reactions seldom occur, but the dust from monkeypod is reported to irritate the eyes.
Monkeypod should be sold by project fit: colour, workability, durability, and the format the customer actually needs.
Best uses for Monkeypod
Best projects
Common uses include small specialty pieces, guitars and ukuleles, furniture, cabinetry, carving, millwork and trim, plywood and veneer.
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 Monkeypod 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.
Monkeypod FAQ
What is Monkeypod best used for?
Common uses include small specialty pieces, guitars and ukuleles, furniture, cabinetry, carving, millwork and trim, plywood and veneer. Match it to the exact board format, colour, hardness, and finish plan before buying.
Is Monkeypod 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 Monkeypod?
The buying section on this page links to any Monkeypod 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.