Amendoim
Scientific name: Pterogyne nitens
Overview
Amendoim is a dense South American hardwood native to Brazil and neighboring regions. It is valued for its strength, stability, and warm golden-brown coloration, making it a versatile option for both structural and decorative applications.
Often used as a more uniform and slightly lighter alternative to species like Jatoba and Cumaru, Amendoim provides a balanced combination of durability, workability, and visual appeal.
Quick Facts
- Common Name: Amendoim
- Scientific Name: Pterogyne nitens
- Region: South American Hardwoods (Brazil)
- Tree Size: 65–100 ft tall, 1.5–3 ft trunk diameter
- Average Dried Weight: 54 lbs/ft³ (865 kg/m³)
- Janka Hardness: 1,910 lbf
- Color: Yellow-brown to medium reddish-brown
- Grain: Straight to slightly interlocked
- Texture: Medium
Identification Characteristics
Amendoim is identified by its warm brown tones and relatively uniform grain pattern compared to many tropical hardwoods.
Key identification traits include:
- Yellow-brown to reddish-brown heartwood
- Moderate, even color variation
- Straight to slightly interlocked grain
- Medium texture
- Subtle natural luster
Working Properties
Amendoim machines well for its density and is generally more cooperative than many tropical hardwoods.
- Moderately easy to machine
- Good dimensional stability
- Gluing and finishing respond well
- Can dull tools over time due to density
- Produces smooth surfaces when properly machined
Safety Note
Dust may cause irritation. Standard protective measures are recommended.
Common Uses
Amendoim is used in both structural and appearance-based applications due to its strength and clean look.
- Flooring
- Furniture
- Cabinetry
- Interior trim
- Decking (in some applications)
- General construction
Sustainability & Notes
Amendoim is not currently listed under CITES. It is harvested primarily in Brazil, and sourcing from responsibly managed forests is recommended.
It is sometimes marketed as a cost-effective alternative to more well-known tropical hardwoods while still offering strong performance characteristics.
Comparative Notes & Related Species
Jatoba – Harder with a deeper reddish tone.
Curupay – More distinct grain contrast and slightly darker appearance.
Guatambu – Lighter in color and lower density.
Related Guides
Wood Identification
Helps distinguish South American hardwood species.
Drying & Acclimating Exotic Woods
Important for maintaining stability in dense hardwoods.
Wood Density & Hardness Explained (Janka Scale)
Provides context for strength and durability.
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
Amendoim is a strong addition to a collection as a representative of mid-to-high density South American hardwoods with balanced color and grain. It serves as a useful comparison species between lighter woods like Guatambu and darker, heavier species such as Jatoba and Cumaru.
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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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