Paraju
Scientific name: Manilkara huberi
Overview
Paraju is a dense South American hardwood known for its strength, durability, and resistance to wear. It is often compared to other heavy tropical species and is used in demanding applications where hardness and longevity are critical.
Quick Facts
- Common Name: Paraju
- Scientific Name: Manilkara huberi
- Region: South America Hardwoods
- Tree Size: 80–120 ft tall, 2–4 ft trunk diameter
- Average Dried Weight: ~55–65 lbs/ft³
- Janka Hardness: ~2,200–2,600 lbf
- Color: Medium to dark reddish brown
- Grain: Straight to slightly interlocked
- Texture: Fine to medium
Identification Characteristics
Paraju typically presents a rich reddish-brown tone that can deepen with age. The grain is usually straight but may show slight interlocking, and the texture is fine, giving it a smooth, dense appearance.
Key identification traits include:
- Reddish-brown coloration
- Dense and heavy feel
- Fine to medium texture
- Subtle grain pattern
Working Properties
Paraju is very hard and dense, making it more difficult to work compared to lighter hardwoods. However, it machines well with sharp tools and produces a durable finished surface.
- Difficult to machine due to density
- Blunts tools quickly
- Good turning characteristics
- Excellent durability
Safety Note
No widely reported toxicity, but due to density, fine dust can be irritating. Use proper dust protection.
Common Uses
Paraju is used in heavy-duty applications where strength and wear resistance are essential.
- Flooring
- Heavy construction
- Decking
- Tool handles
- Industrial applications
Sustainability & Notes
Not currently listed under CITES, but as with many dense tropical hardwoods, sourcing should be verified for sustainability.
Comparative Notes & Related Species
Massaranduba
Very closely related and often confused; Massaranduba is typically slightly heavier and more commonly exported.
Cumaru
Cumaru is harder and more oily, while Paraju is slightly easier to work.
Jatoba
Jatoba is more orange-toned and somewhat easier to machine compared to Paraju.
Related Guides
Wood Strength and Hardness (Janka Scale) Explained
Paraju ranks among the harder hardwoods, making it ideal for high-wear environments.
Working with Hardwood: Machining and Finishing Tips
Important for managing tear-out and tool wear when working dense species like Paraju.
Wood Density and Weight Explained
Helps explain why Paraju is so durable and heavy compared to other woods.
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
Paraju is a strong representative of ultra-dense tropical hardwoods. While not as visually striking as some species, it is highly valued for its strength and durability.
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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.
Lumber Suppliers:
Availability varies — see the Where to Buy Exotic Woods page for current sources.
Related Tools & Products:
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