Angelim Vermelho
Scientific name: Dinizia excelsa
Overview
Angelim Vermelho is a dense and durable South American hardwood native primarily to Brazil. It is widely used in structural and heavy-duty applications due to its strength, resistance to decay, and availability in large dimensions.
The wood is known for its reddish-brown coloration and coarse texture, making it more utilitarian in appearance compared to decorative hardwoods, but highly valued for performance.
Quick Facts
- Common Name: Angelim Vermelho
- Scientific Name: Dinizia excelsa
- Region: South American Hardwoods (Brazil)
- Tree Size: 100–160 ft tall, 3–6 ft trunk diameter
- Average Dried Weight: 56 lbs/ft³ (900 kg/m³)
- Janka Hardness: 1,630 lbf
- Color: Reddish-brown to dark brown
- Grain: Interlocked to irregular
- Texture: Coarse
Identification Characteristics
Angelim Vermelho is identified by its heavy weight, coarse texture, and reddish-brown coloration.
Key identification traits include:
- Reddish-brown to darker brown heartwood
- Coarse texture
- Interlocked to irregular grain
- Large pores visible on end grain
- Heavy and dense feel
Working Properties
Angelim Vermelho is strong and durable but can be difficult to work due to its density and grain structure.
- Moderately difficult to machine
- Interlocked grain may cause tear-out
- Requires sharp tools
- Pre-drilling recommended
- Gluing can be inconsistent
- Finishes adequately but not typically used for fine finishes
- Excellent structural performance
Safety Note
Dust may cause irritation. Standard protective measures are recommended.
Common Uses
Angelim Vermelho is commonly used in structural and heavy-duty applications.
- Structural beams
- Heavy construction
- Bridges and decking
- Exterior applications
- Industrial uses
Sustainability & Notes
Angelim Vermelho is not listed under CITES, but it is sourced from tropical forests where responsible harvesting is critical. Due to its large tree size, it is often used in heavy timber applications.
Comparative Notes & Related Species
Angelim Pedra – Similar regional origin but generally heavier and harder with a more uniform structure.
Cumaru – Denser and harder with a more refined appearance and higher wear resistance.
Garapa – Lighter in color and easier to work, often used in decking with a more uniform grain.
Related Guides
Wood Identification
Helps distinguish heavy South American structural hardwoods.
Machining Dense Tropical Hardwoods
Important when working with coarse, interlocked grain species.
Wood Density & Hardness Explained (Janka Scale)
Provides context for strength and performance.
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
Angelim Vermelho represents the heavy structural side of South American hardwoods and is valuable for comparison against more refined species such as Cumaru and Garapa. While not visually distinctive, its size, weight, and performance characteristics make it an important inclusion in a comprehensive collection.
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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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