Common Name: Locust
Scientific Name: Hymenaea courbaril.
Wood Appearance: Locust, also widely known as Jatoba, is a tropical wood derived from the Hymenaea courbaril tree, native to Brazil and other tropical regions of South America. The heartwood of Jatoba exhibits a warm color, ranging from tan to salmon, often with black accent stripes. This color deepens to a vibrant red over time and with exposure to light, creating an attractive patina.It is commonly referred to as “Brazilian cherry” or “South American cherry” in the lumber market due to its reddish hue. The sapwood is whitish grey and sharply demarcated. The wood’s texture is fine to medium, and its grain is typically intertwined, though it can also be straight. The wood itself has no distinctive odor or taste, although the fruit pulp is known for a strong, cheese-like odor, leading to common names like “stinking toe”.
Physical Properties: Locust is recognized as one of Guyana’s major hardwoods available. Its density typically ranges from 900 to 1150 kg/m³. The Janka hardness is exceptionally high, reported at 2,350 lbf (10,500 N) and 2,690 lbf (approximately 11,950 N).This hardness makes it extremely resistant to wear, impact, and constant traffic. The wood exhibits good dimensional stability if dried correctly.
Mechanical Properties: The high density and hardness of Locust directly translate to superior mechanical strength. It is highly resistant to wear, impact, and abrasion, making it an ideal choice for surfaces subjected to intensive use. While specific bending strength and modulus of elasticity values are not consistently provided across all sources, its overall robust nature is repeatedly emphasized. Its resistance to nicks, dents, and scratches further highlights its suitability for demanding applications.
Uses: Locust is a highly versatile timber, primarily valued for applications requiring exceptional durability and aesthetic appeal. One of its most common uses is in flooring, where its high density and wear resistance make it ideal for high-traffic commercial and residential areas. It is also a popular choice for manufacturing high-quality furniture, including tables, chairs, and cabinets, where its strength and attractive appearance are desired. Other applications include staircases, cabinetmaking, cladding, tool handles, and even cutting boards and kitchen utensils. Its robustness also makes it suitable for structural components and exterior decking. Locust represents a cost-effective material with excellent strength and hardness properties, making it a valuable alternative to more scarce timbers.