Wood Species Guide
Massaranduba
Manilkara bidentata
Also called: Bulletwood, Maçaranduba, Balata, Brazilian Redwood (trade name)
About the name “Massaranduba”
Flooring sellers sometimes call massaranduba Brazilian redwood, but it is not related to redwood. Bulletwood and balata are older names for the same tree. Sapodilla, a different Manilkara species, is the fruit tree grown in Florida.
What Massaranduba looks like
Heartwood is a deep reddish brown to purplish brown, fairly even in tone. The sapwood is pale and clearly separated.
Grain and texture
Straight to slightly interlocked grain with a fine, even texture and a modest luster.
Working Massaranduba: planing, cutting and gluing
Machines better than you would expect for its weight, but it dulls blades faster than average. It can be tricky to glue because it is dense and a bit oily, so wipe with acetone first. It steam bends well.
Finishing Massaranduba: oil, film finishes and epoxy
Oils soak in slowly, so use thin coats and wipe off the excess. Before epoxy or a film finish, wipe with acetone and use a seal coat. The red color softens toward brown with sun; outdoors, a UV deck oil slows the change.
Durability, stability and Florida humidity
Very durable against rot and resistant to most insects, but not to marine borers, so it is not for pilings in salt water. It is a strong decking choice for Florida, though wide boards can check if they dry too fast.
Shop notes from our Fort Myers shop
Massaranduba is a decking and flooring wood that rivals ipe in hardness at a lower price. It makes heavy, handsome outdoor benches and lanai tables. Pre-drill everything and use stainless screws near the coast. We don't stock it, but ask us and we can often source it.
Common uses for Massaranduba
Decking, flooring, heavy construction, docks, boatbuilding, bent parts and turned objects.
Sustainability and CITES status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List.
Safety and toxicity
- Skin irritation
Occasional skin irritation is reported. Few other reports exist.
- In the shop
- Dust collection + 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.
Skin irritation has been reported, but serious reactions are uncommon. Use dust collection and a mask.
Massaranduba in stock now
Ask us. We can often source it.
We don't have Massaranduba 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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