Whitewood
Scientific name: Simarouba glauca
Overview
Whitewood is a light to medium-density tropical hardwood native to the Caribbean, Central America, and parts of northern South America. It is known for its pale coloration, relatively uniform structure, and ease of working compared to many denser tropical species.
While not considered a premium hardwood, Whitewood is valued for general-purpose applications, especially where workability and consistency are more important than hardness or visual figure.
Quick Facts
- Common Name: Whitewood (Marupa)
- Scientific Name: Simarouba glauca
- Region: Caribbean & West Indies Hardwoods
- Tree Size: Medium to large tree, typically 40–80 ft tall
- Average Dried Weight: Low to medium
- Janka Hardness: Not officially rated (relatively soft for a hardwood)
- Color: Pale yellow to light cream
- Grain: Straight
- Texture: Medium to coarse
Identification Characteristics
Whitewood is easily recognized by its very light color and clean, straight grain. It lacks strong figure or contrast, giving it a uniform and somewhat understated appearance.
Key identification traits include:
- Pale yellow to cream-colored wood
- Straight, consistent grain
- Medium to coarse texture
- Lightweight compared to most tropical hardwoods
Working Properties
Whitewood is one of the easier tropical hardwoods to work with due to its lower density and straight grain. It machines cleanly and is well-suited for applications where ease of shaping and consistency are priorities.
- Easy to machine and cut with minimal resistance
- Straight grain reduces tear-out issues
- Glues and fastens well
- Sands and finishes easily, though appearance remains subtle
- Not ideal for high-wear or heavy-duty applications
Safety Note
No widely reported adverse reactions. Standard dust collection and respiratory protection are recommended.
Common Uses
Whitewood is typically used in applications where workability and availability are more important than strength or decorative appeal.
- General construction
- Interior framing and utility work
- Plywood and core stock
- Light furniture components
- Packaging and crates
Sustainability & Notes
Whitewood is more widely available than many Caribbean hardwoods and is sometimes used in plantation or managed forestry settings. Its faster growth and lighter density make it a more sustainable option in certain regions.
Comparative Notes & Related Species
Ceiba — Even lighter and softer, often used in applications where weight is a primary concern rather than durability.
Seven Year Apple — Slightly denser with more strength, but still within the range of general-purpose utility hardwoods.
Caribbean Pine — A softwood alternative with similar workability, though structurally more uniform and commonly used in construction.
Related Guides
Finishing Oils vs Polyurethane on Exotic Species — Helps determine the best finishing approach for lighter woods that do not have strong natural figure.
Understanding Interlocked vs Straight Grain — Explains why straight-grained woods like Whitewood are easier to machine and more predictable.
Plantation vs. Wild-Harvested Hardwood — Provides insight into how species like Whitewood are grown and sourced in managed environments.
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
Whitewood is not typically sought after for its visual appeal but represents an important category of lighter tropical hardwoods. It is useful in a collection for comparison against denser, more decorative species and for understanding the full range of hardwood properties.
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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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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.
Related Tools & Products:
Availability varies — see the Where to Buy Exotic Woods page for current sources.
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