Wood Species Guide
Jarrah
Eucalyptus marginata
Also called: Swan River Mahogany, Western Australian Mahogany
What Jarrah looks like
A rich brick red to deep reddish brown that darkens further with age and light. Sapwood is a pale yellowish band that is sharply defined. Burls and figured pieces are prized for turning.
Grain and texture
Grain tends to be interlocked or wavy, with a medium to coarse but even texture. It has a modest natural luster.
Working Jarrah: planing, cutting and gluing
Hard and heavy, so it is tough on edges and moves slowly through the planer. The interlocked grain tears out on fast, deep passes; go light or finish with a drum sander. Pre-drill for screws. It glues fine on freshly surfaced faces.
Finishing Jarrah: oil, film finishes and epoxy
Oils deepen the red nicely, and penetrating hardwax oils are a good match for tabletops. It accepts film finishes well. Under epoxy it is stable and low-drama, though the deep red dust can tint a light-colored pour, so vacuum and tack the surface before casting.
Durability, stability and Florida humidity
Very durable against decay and fairly resistant to termites, which is why it has long been used outdoors and in marine work. It is reasonably stable once dry. For Florida patios and lanais it holds up better than most imports, but outdoor pieces still need UV protection or it will gray.
Shop notes from our Fort Myers shop
Jarrah gives you a deep red, heavy, outdoor-worthy hardwood when you can find it in the US. Expect to sharpen more often and take light passes. It makes handsome bar tops and outdoor-leaning furniture. We don't regularly stock it; call and we'll see what we can find.
Common uses for Jarrah
Flooring, decking, outdoor furniture, heavy construction, cabinetry, turned objects and musical instrument parts.
Sustainability and CITES status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List.
Safety and toxicity
- Eye irritation
- Respiratory / asthma
Serious reactions are uncommon. The fine dust can irritate eyes and airways in some people.
- In the shop
- Dust collection at the source and a mask when sanding
- Food contact
- Use with care for cutting boards, bowls and utensils
General information, not medical advice. See a doctor if you have a reaction.
Reported to cause eye and breathing irritation in some people, though serious reactions are uncommon. The fine dust is the main concern, so collect it at the source.
Jarrah in stock now
Ask us. We can often source it.
We don't have Jarrah listed online right now, but new slabs and lumber come in all the time and not everything makes it to the website. Tell us what you're building and we'll check our racks and suppliers.
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