EHCI Learning & Certification
Jatoba technical profile
Jatoba (Hymenaea courbaril): hardness, density, durability, movement, fastener and finishing guidance for exterior use.
All species
- Botanical name
- Hymenaea courbaril
- Origin
- Central and South America
- Janka hardness
- 2,690 lbf
- Density (12% MC)
- 910 kg/m³
- Natural durability
- Moderately durable to durable
- Appearance
- Salmon red to orange-brown with dark streaks
Movement and stability
Moderate to high; more common indoors but used for covered exterior work
Working properties
Hard; interlocked grain; pre-drill
Fastener guidance
Stainless steel
Finishing and weathering
Accepts film and penetrating finishes; darkens with exposure
Common applications
Covered porchesExterior stairs and handrailsCeilings
Cautions
- Less proven than Ipe for ground-adjacent or wet exposure
- Verify durability class with the supplier
Related guides
Sources: USDA Forest Products Laboratory, Wood Handbook (FPL-GTR-282); International Wood Products Association species guidance; Published supplier technical data sheets (values vary by origin and grade). Values are typical and must be confirmed with supplier documentation.