Kapur
Scientific name: Dryobalanops aromatica
Overview
Kapur is a dense and moderately durable tropical hardwood native to Southeast Asia. It is widely used in construction, marine environments, and exterior applications due to its strength and natural resistance to moisture.
Though not as decorative as some premium Asian hardwoods, Kapur is valued for reliability, availability, and structural performance.
Quick Facts
- Common Name: Kapur
- Scientific Name: Dryobalanops aromatica
- Region: Asian Hardwoods (Southeast Asia – Malaysia, Indonesia & Borneo)
- Tree Size: 130–200 ft tall, 4–6 ft trunk diameter
- Average Dried Weight: 46 lbs/ft³ (735 kg/m³)
- Janka Hardness: 1,390 lbf
- Color: Light reddish brown to medium brown
- Grain: Straight to slightly interlocked
- Texture: Medium to coarse
Identification Characteristics
Kapur is identified by its light reddish-brown heartwood and moderately coarse texture. The grain is generally straight, and the wood has a uniform appearance compared to more dramatically figured species.
Sapwood is lighter and clearly separated from the heartwood.
Key identification traits include:
- Pinkish to reddish-brown heartwood
- Medium texture
- Straight grain
- Moderate weight and density
Working Properties
Kapur is relatively easy to machine compared to heavier structural hardwoods.
- Machines well with sharp tools
- Good dimensional stability
- Moderate durability
- Good fastener holding
- Suitable for exterior applications
Pre-drilling is recommended for screws in denser boards.
Safety Note
Dust from Kapur may cause mild skin or respiratory irritation. Standard dust collection and protective equipment are recommended when machining.
Common Uses
Kapur is commonly used in:
- Exterior decking
- Structural framing
- Marine applications
- Exterior siding
- Utility construction
Its balance of durability and workability makes it especially valued in tropical climates.
Sustainability & Notes
Kapur is harvested throughout Southeast Asia, and availability depends on regional forestry practices. Responsible sourcing and proper documentation are encouraged.
Comparative Notes & Related Species
Keruing – A Southeast Asian hardwood often used in construction and marine applications, generally heavier and more resinous than Kapur.
Balau – A dense tropical hardwood widely used for decking and structural applications due to its strength and durability.
Bangkirai – Another Shorea-group hardwood known for its hardness and durability in outdoor construction and decking.
Related Guides
How to Identify Exotic Hardwood by Grain Pattern
Studying grain texture and color variation helps distinguish Southeast Asian hardwoods used in construction and exterior projects.
Density & Hardness Explained (Janka Scale Guide)
Understanding hardness ratings helps explain the durability and strength of tropical hardwood species.
Drying & Acclimating Exotic Woods
Proper drying and acclimation help maintain stability and reduce movement in hardwood lumber used for woodworking and construction.
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
Kapur is valued more for reliability and structural utility than decorative figure. Boards with consistent coloration and minimal defects are generally preferred.
Well-seasoned material performs better in exterior settings.
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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.
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