The Species:

Flooring Trade Name: Patagonian Maple, Brazilian Maple

Botanical Name: Balfourodendron, riedelianum

Lumber Name: Guatambu, Pau Marfin

Grows In: Paraguay

Products / Maple, Brazilian

Description:

Brazilian Maple / Patagonian Maple is a dense, cream-colored wood widely used as an American Maple substitute in furniture. Brazilian Maple / Patagonian Maple has distinctive "curl" markings somewhat similar to "curly" American Maple but which run in varying angles as opposed to running at right angles as in American Maple.

Color Range & Color Change:

Color Range: Brazilian Maple / Patagonian Maple offers a medium range of color variability, ranging from pale cream colors to yellowish cream tones. In the lower grades, the darker tan/brown colors of the heartwood can be found.

Color Change: Brazilian Maple / Patagonian Maple undergoes a medium degree of color change, with a slight ambering over time to a more golden cream color and with a muting of the color range found when freshly sanded.

Hardness:

Brazilian Maple / Patagonian Maple is 119% as hard as red oak -( 1500 on the Janka scale vs. 1260 for red oak ).

Where to Use:

Brazilian Maple / Patagonian Maple may be used both residentially and commercially wherever a "blond" look is desired.

Stability:

Brazilian Maple / Patagonian Maple is average in stability, similar to red oak.

Allergic Reaction Potential:

There are no specific Allergic Reaction cases reported at this time. However, wood dust in general can be a hazard.

Known Finish Issues:

There are no finish compatibility issues known with Brazilian Maple / Patagonian Maple. However, ALWAYS test the finish you propose to use FIRST on test pieces to insure compatibility.