Mansonia
Scientific name: Mansonia altissima
Overview
Mansonia is a medium to heavy hardwood from West and Central Africa, known for its grayish-brown color and interlocked grain. It is often used as a substitute for walnut in furniture applications.
Quick Facts
- Common Name: Mansonia
- Scientific Name: Mansonia altissima
- Region: African Hardwoods (West & Central Africa)
- Tree Size: 100–150 ft tall, 3–5 ft trunk diameter
- Average Dried Weight: 45 lbs/ft³ (720 kg/m³)
- Janka Hardness: 990 lbf
- Color: Grayish brown to dark brown
- Grain: Interlocked
- Texture: Medium to coarse
Identification Characteristics
Mansonia is identified by its muted brown color and interlocked grain, often producing a slightly ribboned appearance.
Key identification traits include:
- Gray-brown heartwood
- Interlocked grain
- Moderate to coarse texture
- Walnut-like appearance
Working Properties
Mansonia can be moderately difficult to work due to interlocked grain.
- Machines moderately well
- Tear-out possible when planing
- Glues and finishes well
- Good durability
- Stable when dried
Safety Note
Dust may cause irritation and has been reported to cause allergic reactions in some individuals.
Common Uses
Mansonia is used where strength and darker appearance are desired.
- Furniture
- Cabinetry
- Flooring
- Interior joinery
- Paneling
Sustainability & Notes
Mansonia is not CITES-listed but is harvested in limited regions. Sustainable sourcing is recommended.
Comparative Notes & Related Species
Sapele – More reddish and often more visually striking with ribbon grain.
Wenge – Much darker and denser with a more dramatic grain pattern.
African Mahogany – Lighter and easier to work with more uniform appearance.
Related Guides
Understanding Interlocked vs Straight Grain
Important for managing tear-out during machining.
Machining Dense Tropical Hardwoods
Helps improve results when working with heavier woods.
Wood Identification
Aids in distinguishing similar brown 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
Mansonia is collected for its resemblance to walnut and its role as a darker African hardwood reference.
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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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