Acajou (big leaf or khaya grandifolia)
Acajou, commonly referred to as African Mahogany, is a highly valued tropical hardwood known for its golden to reddish-brown color, smooth texture, and ease of machining. Khaya grandifoliola, one of the largest and finest species in the Khaya genus, is especially sought after for its resemblance to genuine South American mahogany (Swietenia spp.) while offering greater availability and sustainability.
ACAJOU (Khaya grandifoliola – African Mahogany, Big Leaf Mahogany)
Common Names: Acajou d’Afrique, African Mahogany, Grand Bassam Mahogany, Big Leaf Khaya
Origin: West and Central Africa — primarily Ivory Coast, Ghana, Cameroon, Nigeria
Description:
Acajou, commonly referred to as African Mahogany, is a highly valued tropical hardwood known for its golden to reddish-brown color, smooth texture, and ease of machining. Khaya grandifoliola, one of the largest and finest species in the Khaya genus, is especially sought after for its resemblance to genuine South American mahogany (Swietenia spp.) while offering greater availability and sustainability.
It’s ideal for fine furniture, luxury interiors, and decorative veneers, and is also used in marine and joinery applications due to its moderate durability and beautiful grain.
Technical Specifications
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Khaya grandifoliola |
| Family | Meliaceae |
| Density (Dry) | 550–750 kg/m³ |
| Janka Hardness | 830 lbf (3,690 N) |
| Bending Strength (MOR) | 90–110 MPa |
| Modulus of Elasticity (MOE) | 9,500–11,000 MPa |
| Crushing Strength | 48–55 MPa |
| Shrinkage (Radial/Tangential) | 2.5% / 4.5% |
| Durability Class | Class 3 – Moderately durable |
| Workability | Excellent – easy to machine, plane, glue, and sand |
| Finishing | Very good – accepts stains, polishes, varnishes, and oils |
Color & Appearance
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Heartwood: Light pink to medium reddish-brown, darkens with age
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Sapwood: Pale yellow-white, clearly distinct
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Grain: Interlocked to straight, sometimes slightly wavy, often with ribbon figure when quarter-sawn
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Texture: Medium, uniform, with a moderately lustrous surface
Common Applications
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Fine furniture and cabinetry
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Doors, windows, and moldings
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Interior paneling and cladding
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Decorative veneers
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Boat interiors and light marine construction
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Musical instruments and carvings
Sustainability & Certification
Acajou from Timber Experts Global Holdings is legally harvested and compliant with EU Timber Regulation (EUTR) and other international standards. FSC® and PEFC™ certifications are available upon request. African Mahogany is a more sustainable alternative to the endangered genuine Mahogany species (Swietenia macrophylla).
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