Wamara
Scientific name: Swartzia leiocalycina
Overview
Wamara is a dense and durable South American hardwood native primarily to northern South America, including Guyana, Suriname, and Brazil. It is known for its dark brown coloration, high strength, and excellent wear resistance.
Often used in flooring, heavy construction, and exterior applications, Wamara is valued for its durability and ability to withstand demanding environments.
Quick Facts
- Common Name: Wamara
- Scientific Name: Swartzia leiocalycina
- Region: South American Hardwoods (Northern South America)
- Tree Size: 80–130 ft tall, 2–4 ft trunk diameter
- Average Dried Weight: 65 lbs/ft³ (1,040 kg/m³)
- Janka Hardness: 3,160 lbf
- Color: Medium to dark brown, sometimes with darker streaks
- Grain: Interlocked
- Texture: Medium to coarse
Identification Characteristics
Wamara is identified by its dark brown coloration and heavy weight. The interlocked grain can create subtle figure and variation across boards.
Key identification traits include:
- Medium to dark brown heartwood
- Heavy, dense structure
- Interlocked grain
- Medium to coarse texture
Working Properties
Wamara is challenging to work due to its density and grain structure but performs well in demanding applications.
- Difficult to machine
- Blunting effect on cutting tools
- Interlocked grain may cause tear-out
- Gluing can be moderate to difficult
- Finishes well with proper preparation
Safety Note
Dust may cause irritation. Proper dust collection and protective equipment are recommended.
Common Uses
Wamara is commonly used in applications requiring strength and durability.
- Flooring
- Exterior construction
- Decking
- Heavy-duty joinery
- Structural applications
Sustainability & Notes
Wamara is not currently listed under CITES, but it is harvested in regions where responsible forestry practices are important. Buyers should seek properly sourced material.
Comparative Notes & Related Species
Ipe – Similar density and durability, widely used in decking and exterior applications.
Cumaru – Comparable strength with slightly different coloration and grain.
Massaranduba – Similar hardness and heavy-duty use cases.
Related Guides
Machining Dense Tropical Hardwoods
Important for working with high-density species.
Drying & Acclimating Exotic Woods
Helps maintain stability and performance.
Understanding CITES & Protected Species
Supports responsible sourcing decisions.
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
Wamara is a strong addition to collections focused on dense South American hardwoods. Its weight, durability, and darker coloration make it a useful comparison species alongside Ipe, Cumaru, and Massaranduba.
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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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