Mora
Scientific name: Mora oleifera
Overview
Mora (Mora oleifera) is a dense tropical hardwood native to parts of southern Central America and northern South America. The species is well known for its exceptional strength, durability, and resistance to decay, making it suitable for heavy construction and demanding structural applications. The wood typically displays a medium to dark brown coloration with subtle grain patterns and a uniform texture.
Because of its high density and durability, Mora has historically been used in marine construction, bridge timbers, and other structural environments where strength and resistance to wear are essential.
Quick Facts
- Common Name: Mora
- Scientific Name: Mora oleifera
- Region: Central American Hardwoods (Central America and northern South America – Panama, Colombia, and surrounding regions)
- Tree Size: 100–130 ft tall, 3–5 ft trunk diameter
- Average Dried Weight: 68 lbs/ft³ (1,090 kg/m³)
- Janka Hardness: 3,000 lbf
- Color: Dark reddish brown to deep brown
- Grain: Interlocked
- Texture: Medium to coarse
Identification Characteristics
Mora heartwood ranges from medium brown to dark reddish-brown and may show subtle darker streaks. The sapwood is pale and clearly distinct from the heartwood. Grain is typically straight but may occasionally show slight interlocking. The texture is generally uniform and medium.
Key identification traits include:
- Medium to dark brown heartwood
- Heavy weight and dense structure
- Medium, even texture
- Subtle grain patterns
Working Properties
Mora is generally considered moderately difficult to work due to its hardness and density.
- Requires sharp carbide tooling for best results
- Machines reasonably well with proper equipment
- Pre-drilling recommended for screws and fasteners
- Interlocked grain may produce tear-out during planing
- Glues reliably with standard adhesives
- Accepts oils and film finishes well
- Sands to a durable surface
Its strength and durability make it especially suitable for heavy-duty woodworking and structural applications.
Safety Note
Wood dust may cause mild skin or respiratory irritation. Standard dust collection and protective equipment are recommended when machining.
Common Uses
Mora common uses including:
- Heavy construction
- Bridge timbers
- Marine construction
- Industrial flooring
- Structural beams
- Heavy furniture
Sustainability & Notes
Mora grows throughout parts of southern Central America and into northern South America. The species is valued for its durability and has historically been used in demanding outdoor environments. Responsible forestry practices are recommended to ensure sustainable harvesting.
Comparative Notes & Related Species
Lignum Vitae – Generally harder and heavier, often used in extreme-duty applications.
Machiche – Similar density and structural strength, though typically lighter in color.
Santa Maria – Usually easier to machine and slightly lighter in weight.
Related Guides
Density & Hardness Explained (Janka Scale Guide) – Mora is a good example of a dense tropical hardwood used in structural applications.
Moisture Content & Long-Term Stability – Proper drying and acclimation are important for dense hardwoods like Mora.
How to Identify Exotic Hardwood by Grain Pattern – Mora’s subtle grain and brown coloration can resemble other dense tropical species.
Compare Wood Properties
See how this species ranks in density and hardness using our Wood Density & Janka Hardness Chart. You can also explore Hardest Woods, Softest Woods, and Most Dense Woods for quick comparisons.
Collector Notes
Mora samples are typically heavy and show a uniform medium-brown coloration with a smooth texture. When cataloging, note the high density and structural characteristics of the wood. It pairs well in comparison collections with Machiche and other dense Central American hardwoods.
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Wood Sample Collection
This species is part of an ongoing effort to document and preserve wood samples from around the world.
Learn more about contributing to the collection:
Resources
Authoritative botanical and forestry references used in compiling information about this species include:
• USDA Forest Service – Wood Handbook: Wood as an Engineering Material
https://www.fpl.fs.usda.gov/products/publications/
• The Wood Database – Global reference for wood identification, physical properties, and woodworking characteristics
https://www.wood-database.com/
• Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew – Plants of the World Online – Botanical taxonomy and species distribution database
https://powo.science.kew.org/
• International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN Red List) – Global conservation status assessments
https://www.iucnredlist.org/
• Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) – International trade regulations for protected plant species
https://cites.org/
Additional forestry publications, academic research papers, and regional timber studies may also be referenced where available.
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Availability & Where to Buy
Exotic hardwood availability can vary significantly depending on region, sustainability regulations, and supplier inventory.
As this archive grows, recommended suppliers and specialty wood retailers will be listed here to help woodworkers locate responsibly sourced material.
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