Curupixa
Scientific name: Micropholis melinoniana
Overview
Curupixa is a medium-density South American hardwood native to the Amazon region. It is known for its warm reddish-brown coloration, moderate strength, and good workability.
The wood is commonly used in furniture, interior joinery, and general woodworking applications where a balance of durability and ease of machining is desired.
Quick Facts
- Common Name: Curupixa
- Scientific Name: Micropholis melinoniana
- Region: South American Hardwoods (Amazon Basin)
- Tree Size: 80–120 ft tall, 2–4 ft trunk diameter
- Average Dried Weight: 42 lbs/ft³ (675 kg/m³)
- Janka Hardness: 1,210 lbf
- Color: Reddish brown to medium brown
- Grain: Straight to slightly interlocked
- Texture: Medium
Identification Characteristics
Curupixa is identified by its warm reddish-brown tone and relatively uniform appearance.
Key identification traits include:
- Reddish-brown heartwood
- Straight to slightly interlocked grain
- Medium texture
- Uniform appearance with subtle variation
Working Properties
Curupixa 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 measures are recommended.
Common Uses
Curupixa is commonly used in applications where moderate strength and workability are important.
- Furniture
- Cabinetry
- Interior joinery
- Paneling
- General woodworking
Sustainability & Notes
Curupixa is not listed under CITES. It is harvested in the Amazon region, and responsible sourcing is recommended.
Comparative Notes & Related Species
Tornillo – Similar density and general-use applications.
Cedro – Comparable workability with lighter coloration.
Andiroba – Similar in weight and appearance with slightly different grain characteristics.
Related Guides
Wood Identification
Helps distinguish medium-density hardwoods.
Drying & Acclimating Exotic Woods
Important for stability.
Finishing Oils vs Polyurethane on Exotic Species
Enhances 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
Curupixa is a useful addition to collections as a representative of medium-density Amazon hardwoods. Its consistent appearance and workability make it a good comparison species alongside Cedro and Andiroba.
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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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