Wood Species Guide
Primavera
Roseodendron donnell-smithii (syn. Tabebuia donnell-smithii)
Also called: White Mahogany, Prima Vera, Palo Blanco
About the name “Primavera”
White mahogany is a loose name also used for other pale woods; primavera is not a true mahogany.
What Primavera looks like
Pale cream to light yellow-tan, sometimes with faint pinkish or darker streaks. It looks a bit like a blond mahogany, which is where the name white mahogany comes from.
Grain and texture
Grain is straight to interlocked, which can give a ribbon figure on quartersawn faces. Texture is medium and the wood has a good luster.
Working Primavera: planing, cutting and gluing
Light and soft, so it cuts and machines easily. Interlocked grain can tear out on the planer; use sharp knives and shallow passes. It glues and screws without trouble.
Finishing Primavera: oil, film finishes and epoxy
Finishes well. A water-based or non-yellowing finish keeps the pale color; oil-based finishes warm it toward gold. Under epoxy, seal coat first since lighter, more porous woods tend to outgas.
Durability, stability and Florida humidity
Only moderately rot resistant and vulnerable to insects, so keep it indoors. It is stable once dry. Florida humidity is less of a problem than bugs; keep it sealed and off damp floors.
Shop notes from our Fort Myers shop
Primavera is a light, pale, easy-working wood for people who want a blond mahogany-style look. It's not a slab wood for us; it shows up as lumber and veneer. Since late 2024 it has needed CITES paperwork to cross borders, so supply is tighter. Ask us if you want it and we'll check availability.
Common uses for Primavera
Cabinetry, furniture, interior trim, veneer and paneling.
Sustainability and CITES status
Listed in CITES Appendix II. The genus Roseodendron was added at CoP19 alongside ipe, with the listing taking effect on 25 November 2024.
Safety and toxicity
- Skin irritation
- Sensitizer (allergy builds with exposure)
Primavera contains compounds that are known skin sensitizers in related woods, though few direct reports exist for this species.
- In the shop
- Dust collection + dust mask when sanding; gloves for sensitive skin
- Food contact
- Use with care for cutting boards, bowls and utensils
General information, not medical advice. See a doctor if you have a reaction.
No direct testing is reported, but it contains compounds known to cause skin irritation in related woods. Use normal dust control.
Primavera in stock now
Ask us. We can often source it.
We don't have Primavera 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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