Mandioqueira
Scientific name: Qualea albiflora
Overview
Mandioqueira is a moderately dense South American hardwood native primarily to Brazil. It is valued for its strength, stability, and relatively uniform appearance, making it suitable for both structural and interior applications.
While not as well-known as species like Cumaru or Ipe, Mandioqueira is widely used in general construction and woodworking where a balance of durability and workability is required.
Quick Facts
- Common Name: Mandioqueira
- Scientific Name: Qualea albiflora
- Region: South American Hardwoods (Brazil)
- Tree Size: 80–130 ft tall, 2–4 ft trunk diameter
- Average Dried Weight: 50 lbs/ft³ (800 kg/m³)
- Janka Hardness: 1,350 lbf
- Color: Light brown to reddish-brown
- Grain: Straight to slightly interlocked
- Texture: Medium to coarse
Identification Characteristics
Mandioqueira is identified by its relatively uniform coloration and moderate density.
Key identification traits include:
- Light to reddish-brown heartwood
- Subtle color variation
- Straight to slightly interlocked grain
- Medium to coarse texture
- Uniform overall appearance
Working Properties
Mandioqueira offers good workability compared to many tropical hardwoods.
- Moderately easy to machine
- Less tool wear than denser hardwoods
- Planes and sands well
- Gluing and finishing are generally good
- Good dimensional stability
- Suitable for both interior and structural applications
Safety Note
Dust may cause irritation. Standard protective measures are recommended.
Common Uses
Mandioqueira is commonly used in a wide range of applications due to its balance of strength and workability.
- Flooring
- Furniture
- Cabinetry
- Interior joinery
- General construction
- Millwork
Sustainability & Notes
Mandioqueira is not listed under CITES. It is harvested in South America, and responsible sourcing is recommended as with all tropical hardwoods.
Comparative Notes & Related Species
Itauba – More durable and better suited for exterior applications.
Jatoba – Harder and denser with a more pronounced reddish color.
Canela – Similar in density and general-purpose usability with a more subdued appearance.
Related Guides
Wood Identification
Helps distinguish medium-density South American hardwoods.
Drying & Acclimating Exotic Woods
Important for maintaining stability.
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
Mandioqueira is a useful addition to a collection as a representative of medium-density South American hardwoods that balance workability and durability. It provides a strong comparison point between lighter general-purpose species and heavier structural hardwoods.
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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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