Nispero
Scientific name: Eriobotrya japonica
Overview
Nispero is a dense tropical hardwood native to Central America and parts of the Caribbean. The species is best known as the tree that produces the sapodilla fruit, but its wood has long been valued for its strength, durability, and resistance to wear. Historically, the tree was also an important source of chicle, the natural latex once used in chewing gum.
The wood is typically reddish-brown to dark brown with a fine, even texture. Because of its density and strength, Nispero has been used for heavy construction, tool handles, flooring, and furniture. When properly finished, the wood develops a smooth surface with a subtle natural luster.
Quick Facts
- Common Name: Nispero
- Scientific Name: Eriobotrya japonica
- Region: Central American Hardwoods (Central America, Mexico, and the Caribbean)
- Tree Size: 60–100 ft tall, 2–4 ft trunk diameter
- Average Dried Weight: 55 lbs/ft³ (880 kg/m³)
- Janka Hardness: 2,300 lbf
- Color: Reddish brown to dark brown, sometimes with subtle striping
- Grain: Interlocked
- Texture: Fine to medium
Identification Characteristics
Nispero heartwood ranges from reddish-brown to dark brown and may darken slightly with age. The sapwood is pale and clearly distinct from the darker heartwood. Grain is generally straight but may occasionally show slight interlocking. The texture is fine and uniform, contributing to its smooth finished appearance.
Key identification traits include:
- Reddish-brown to dark brown heartwood
- Dense and heavy wood
- Fine, uniform texture
- Smooth finish when polished
Working Properties
Nispero is generally considered moderately difficult to work due to its density.
- Machines well with sharp tools
- Pre-drilling recommended for screws and fasteners
- Dense structure may dull cutting edges over time
- Turns well on a lathe
- Glues reliably with standard adhesives
- Accepts oils and film finishes well
- Sands to a smooth surface
Its strength and durability make it suitable for both structural and decorative woodworking applications.
Safety Note
Wood dust may cause mild irritation in some individuals. Proper dust collection and protective equipment are recommended when machining.
Common Uses
Nispero common uses including:
- Furniture
- Flooring
- Tool handles
- Heavy construction
- Turned objects
- Decorative woodworking
Sustainability & Notes
Nispero grows throughout Central America and parts of southern Mexico. The species is well known for producing sapodilla fruit and historically served as a major source of chicle used in early chewing gum production. The wood is not as widely traded internationally as some tropical hardwoods but remains an important regional timber.
Comparative Notes & Related Species
Jatoba – Similar in density but typically shows stronger reddish coloration.
Machiche – Comparable strength and durability, though Machiche usually has a coarser texture.
Santa Maria – Generally lighter in weight and easier to machine.
Related Guides
Density & Hardness Explained (Janka Scale Guide) – Nispero is a dense hardwood that fits well within the heavier Central American species.
Moisture Content & Long-Term Stability – Proper drying and acclimation are important when working with dense tropical hardwoods.
Finishing Oils vs Polyurethane on Exotic Species – Nispero responds well to both oil finishes and protective film finishes.
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
Nispero samples are typically dense and display a warm reddish-brown tone with a fine texture. When cataloging, note the weight relative to size and the smooth finish the wood can achieve when polished. It pairs well in comparison collections alongside Jatoba and other dense Central American 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.
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