African Mahogany
Also known as Khaya, Khaya ivorensis.
Khaya spp. (Meliaceae) · West & Central Africa
African Mahogany is the workhorse mahogany of the modern shop — the warm, even, red-brown look people picture when they hear "mahogany," at a price and supply that genuine Honduran mahogany can no longer match. We bring it in kiln-dried and mill it for furniture makers, cabinet shops, and trim carpenters who want a stable, forgiving hardwood that machines cleanly and finishes to a deep glow.
It is a joy to work: it planes, sands, and glues predictably, takes stain evenly, and holds crisp detail in mouldings and raised panels. Expect the color to deepen and richen over the first months in the light. If you are matching an existing mahogany piece or planning a big millwork run, talk to us early so we can pull boards from the same lot for consistent color and figure.
Appearance
Color. Pale pink to a deep reddish-brown that darkens with age and light.
Grain. Straight to interlocked, often with a ribbon or stripe figure on quartered faces.
Texture. Medium to coarse, with good natural luster.
Photosensitive — the color deepens and ambers with UV exposure over time.
Working & finishing
Works easily with hand and machine tools, though interlocked grain can tear on planing — a light cut and sharp knives keep the surface clean. Glues, stains, and finishes beautifully.
Drying. Dries fairly quickly and easily with little degrade.
Durability
Moderately durable; the heartwood resists decay reasonably well but it is not a ground-contact or exterior wood without a finish.
Common uses
Looking for African Mahogany?
We stock and mill a wide range of species and grades. Tell us your sizes and we'll confirm availability and pricing — usually within one business day.