Tchitola
Scientific name: Prioria balsamifera
Overview
Tchitola is a lesser-known African hardwood native to Central Africa. It is valued for its moderate density, good workability, and stability, making it suitable for general woodworking and interior applications.
While not as commercially prominent as other African hardwoods, it serves as a reliable material for joinery, furniture, and light construction.
Quick Facts
- Common Name: Tchitola
- Scientific Name: Prioria balsamifera
- Region: African Hardwoods (Central Africa)
- Tree Size: 100–130 ft tall, 3–5 ft trunk diameter
- Average Dried Weight: 38 lbs/ft³ (610 kg/m³)
- Janka Hardness: 850 lbf
- Color: Pale brown to yellowish brown
- Grain: Straight to slightly interlocked
- Texture: Medium
Identification Characteristics
Tchitola is identified by its light brown coloration and relatively uniform appearance. The grain is usually straight, and the texture is even.
Key identification traits include:
- Pale to yellow-brown heartwood
- Generally straight grain
- Uniform, medium texture
- Moderate weight
Working Properties
Tchitola is generally easy to work, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.
- Machines easily
- Planes and sands smoothly
- Glues and finishes well
- Accepts stains evenly
- Good dimensional stability
Safety Note
Dust may cause mild irritation. Standard protective measures are recommended.
Common Uses
Tchitola is commonly used in applications where ease of workability and stability are important.
- Furniture
- Cabinetry
- Interior joinery
- Paneling
- General woodworking
Sustainability & Notes
Tchitola is not listed under CITES, though it is not widely traded. Responsible sourcing is recommended.
Comparative Notes & Related Species
Framire – Similar in weight and workability, often used in similar applications.
Anegre – Comparable in color and texture with slightly finer grain.
African Mahogany – Heavier and more commonly used in higher-end applications.
Related Guides
Wood Identification
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Finishing Oils vs Polyurethane on Exotic Species
Guides finishing for consistent color and surface quality.
Hardwood vs Softwood
Provides structural classification context.
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
Tchitola is useful in collections as a representative of lesser-known African hardwoods, offering comparison to more widely used species with similar working characteristics.
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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.
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