Canafistula
Scientific name: Peltophorum dubium
Overview
Canafistula is a moderately dense South American hardwood native to Brazil and surrounding regions. It is known for its warm golden-brown coloration, moderate strength, and good workability.
The wood is commonly used in general construction, furniture, and interior applications where a balance of durability and ease of use is important.
Quick Facts
- Common Name: Canafistula
- Scientific Name: Peltophorum dubium
- Region: South American Hardwoods (Brazil)
- Tree Size: 60–100 ft tall, 2–4 ft trunk diameter
- Average Dried Weight: 45 lbs/ft³ (720 kg/m³)
- Janka Hardness: 1,260 lbf
- Color: Yellowish brown to golden brown
- Grain: Straight to slightly interlocked
- Texture: Medium
Identification Characteristics
Canafistula is identified by its warm golden-brown color and relatively uniform appearance, often with subtle grain variation.
Key identification traits include:
- Yellowish to golden-brown heartwood
- Straight to slightly interlocked grain
- Medium texture
- Uniform, consistent appearance
Working Properties
Canafistula is generally easy to work and performs well in a variety of applications.
- Machines easily
- Planes and sands smoothly
- Glues and finishes well
- Accepts coatings evenly
- Good dimensional stability
Safety Note
Dust may cause mild irritation. Standard protective equipment is recommended.
Common Uses
Canafistula is commonly used in general woodworking and construction applications.
- Furniture
- Cabinetry
- Interior joinery
- Paneling
- General construction
Sustainability & Notes
Canafistula is not listed under CITES. It is harvested in South America, and responsible sourcing is recommended.
Comparative Notes & Related Species
Garapa – Similar golden coloration but typically denser and harder.
Tatajuba – Comparable appearance with slightly greater durability.
Pau Amarelo – Similar bright tone with a finer texture.
Related Guides
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Enhances natural color and grain.
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
Canafistula is a useful addition to collections as a representative of medium-density golden-toned hardwoods. Its consistent color and workability make it a good comparison species alongside Garapa and Tatajuba.
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When submitting photos, please include the common name, scientific name (if known), a brief description, and any information you would like us to share with the image.
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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