Jamaican Capparis
Scientific name: Capparis cynophallophora
Overview
Jamaica Capparis is a lesser-known hardwood native to the Caribbean. It is typically found in coastal and dry forest environments and is valued locally for its durability and resistance to environmental stress. While not widely traded, it represents a strong example of regional hardwoods used in practical applications.
Quick Facts
- Common Name: Jamaica Capparis
- Scientific Name: Capparis cynophallophora
- Region: Caribbean & West Indies Hardwoods
- Tree Size: 20–40 ft tall, 1–2 ft trunk diameter
- Average Dried Weight: 45 lbs/ft³ (720 kg/m³)
- Janka Hardness: 1,500 lbf
- Color: Light brown to olive brown
- Grain: Straight to slightly irregular
- Texture: Medium
Identification Characteristics
Jamaica Capparis typically shows a light to medium brown tone with subtle olive hues. The grain is generally straight, and the texture is even.
Key identification traits include:
- Light to olive brown coloration
- Straight to slightly irregular grain
- Medium texture
- Moderate natural luster
Working Properties
This wood is moderately easy to work and suitable for general applications.
- Moderate ease of machining
- Stable during cutting
- Glues and finishes well
- Suitable for general woodworking
Safety Note
Wood dust may cause irritation. Use proper protection when machining.
Common Uses
Jamaica Capparis is used in general-purpose applications where moderate strength and durability are sufficient.
- General construction
- Small woodworking projects
- Utility applications
Sustainability & Notes
This species is primarily used locally and is not widely exported.
Comparative Notes & Related Species
Spanish Elm – A similar utility hardwood used for general construction and woodworking.
Pigeon Plum – A regional hardwood with comparable density and general use.
Whitewood – A lighter hardwood often used in general carpentry.
Related Guides
Drying & Acclimating Exotic Woods – Covers proper handling to prevent movement and defects.
Moisture Content & Long-Term Stability – Explains how the wood behaves over time.
Gluing Exotic Woods: Challenges and Solutions – Covers best practices for bonding tropical hardwoods.
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
Jamaica Capparis is a useful collector species for representing lesser-known Caribbean hardwoods and adds regional depth to a collection.
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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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Contributions help fund the continued expansion of this archive while promoting sustainable forestry education and the long-term appreciation of the world’s forests.
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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.
Related Tools & Products:
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