Common Name: Brazilian Cherry (Jatoba) Botanical Classification: Hymenaea Family: Leguminosae Tree is Native To: Central and South America and the West Indies. Characteristics: The heartwood is a reddish-brown to brown with pronounced darker stripes. The wood has a golden lustre. The grain is commonly interlocked with a coarse texture. Brazilian Cherry is very hard and heavy. The timber has outstanding strength properties. Brazilian Cherry is not in the Cherry family. Average Dried Weight: 66 lb/ft3 Average Specific Gravity: .91 Working Properties: Brazilian Cherry can be difficult to work with due to it’s high density. It has dulling effects on tools but does turn very well. Nail and screw holding properties are good. Glue adheres satisfactorily and it can be finished smoothly. Brazilian Cherry has good bending classification. Common Uses: Brazilian Cherry is used in furniture, cabinetmaking, joinery, turnery, tool handles, gear cogs, flooring, ship planking, general carpentry and heavy construction.