303.733.1292
800-692-WOOD(9663)
303.733.1292
800-692-WOOD(9663)
Botanical Name
Samanea Saman
Other Common Names
Monkeypod, Monkey Pod, Lara, Sa, Samagu
Region
Central and South America
The Tree
Trees growing in open areas are reported to reach a height of 100 to 125 feet, with a trunk diameter of 36 to 48 inches. Boles are reported to be short, thick and often crooked.
Appearance
Color tends to be a golden to dark brown, sometimes with darker streaks. Sapwood is usually thin and yellow/white, clearly demarcated from the heartwood. Monkeypod is sometimes seen with highly figured curly or wild grain patterns.
Properties
Grain is usually straight, but can also be interlocked or wavy. Texture is medium to coarse, with medium to large open pores and a moderate natural luster.
Working Properties
Monkeypod is generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though any interlocked grain may result in fuzzy or torn grain during planing operations. Glues and finishes well.
Uses
Furniture , Cabinetmaking, Interior trim, Carvings, Turnery, Veneer. Favored for its wooden bowls and similar items. It is also a favorite shade tree.
Availability
Likely to be in the medium to high range for imported wood. Monkeypod usually trends a little bit cheaper in price than Koa, all other things being equal.