Maple lumber collection
Clean, pale domestic alternative for furniture and utility builds.
View optionTzalam Wood Guide
Wood species guide · Imported specialty hardwood
Tzalam 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 nameLysiloma spp.
Janka hardness1,400 lbf
Average dried weight49 lb/ft³
Best fitFlooring
Overview
Why choose Tzalam?
Tzalam is an imported specialty hardwood. Its natural range is Mexico and Central America. Common uses include flooring, veneer, interior trim, exterior furniture, turned work and small specialty pieces.
Scientific nameLysiloma spp.
DistributionMexico and Central America
ShrinkageRadial: 2.7%, Tangential: 7.2%, Volumetric: 9.5%, T/R Ratio: 2.7
DurabilityIt is said to be highly durable and to resist most insect attacks.
Tzalam colour, grain, and figure
Heartwood is light to medium brown, often tinted reddish or purplish. Darker brown streaks are common.
The grain is straight and the texture open and even, with a medium shine.
Working notes
Working qualities are good overall, although tool edges may blunt faster than usual. It also turns, takes glue and finishes well.
Serious reactions are unusual, but tzalam is reported to produce cold-like symptoms.
Tzalam should be sold by project fit: colour, workability, durability, and the format the customer actually needs.
Best uses for Tzalam
Best projects
Common uses include flooring, veneer, interior trim, exterior furniture, turned work and small specialty pieces.
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 Tzalam 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.
Tzalam FAQ
What is Tzalam best used for?
Common uses include flooring, veneer, interior trim, exterior furniture, turned work and small specialty pieces. Match it to the exact board format, colour, hardness, and finish plan before buying.
Is Tzalam 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 Tzalam?
The buying section on this page links to any Tzalam 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.