Piquia
Scientific name: Caryocar villosum
Overview
Piquia is a dense and durable South American hardwood valued for its strength and resistance to wear. It is commonly used in structural and heavy-duty applications where toughness is more important than fine appearance. While not as widely recognized as some tropical species, it performs similarly to many high-density hardwoods used in demanding environments.
Quick Facts
- Common Name: Piquia
- Scientific Name: Caryocar villosum
- Region: South America Hardwoods
- Tree Size: 100–160 ft tall, 3–6 ft trunk diameter
- Average Dried Weight: ~55–60 lbs/ft³
- Janka Hardness: ~1,800–2,000 lbf
- Color: Yellow-brown to reddish brown
- Grain: Interlocked
- Texture: Medium to coarse
Identification Characteristics
Piquia has a coarse texture and interlocked grain, often producing a subtle ribbon-like appearance. The color ranges from yellow-brown to deeper reddish tones depending on age and exposure.
Key identification traits include:
- Yellow-brown to reddish brown color
- Interlocked grain
- Coarse texture
- Often shows ribbon figure
Working Properties
Piquia is moderately difficult to work due to its density and interlocked grain but finishes well.
- Moderate machining difficulty
- Can tear out with interlocked grain
- Durable and stable
- Accepts finish well
Safety Note
No widely reported toxicity, but wood dust may cause irritation. Standard dust collection and respiratory protection are recommended.
Common Uses
Piquia is commonly used in heavy-duty applications where durability and strength are required.
- Flooring
- Decking
- Structural construction
- Exterior applications
- General utility lumber
Sustainability & Notes
Piquia is not currently listed under CITES. However, as with many tropical hardwoods, sustainable sourcing practices are important to ensure long-term availability.
Comparative Notes & Related Species
Cumaru
Cumaru is generally harder and more oily, while Piquia is slightly less dense but still highly durable.
Jatoba
Jatoba has a finer texture and is easier to machine, whereas Piquia is coarser and more rugged.
Massaranduba
Massaranduba is typically heavier and denser, but Piquia offers similar durability with slightly better workability.
Related Guides
Wood Strength and Hardness (Janka Scale) Explained
Piquia ranks in the upper range of hardwood density and hardness, making it suitable for high-wear applications.
Working with Hardwood: Machining and Finishing Tips
Important when dealing with interlocked grain and dense material like Piquia.
Wood Density and Weight Explained
Helps explain the durability and structural performance of dense tropical hardwoods like Piquia.
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
Piquia represents a strong example of a dense, utility-focused tropical hardwood. While it may not have the striking figure of more decorative species, its performance characteristics make it an important addition to a well-rounded wood collection.
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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.
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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:
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