Used as both a Mahogany substitute and an everyday utility carpentry wood throughout its indigenous regions (scattered across Central & South America), Andiroba is generally easy to work, and turns, glues and finishes well. This pale reddish-brown colored lumber is a durable wood — similar to Honduran Mahogany, in that regard. Aesthetically, its typically more on the bland side (compared to a Mahogany), although more desirable examples of the species can be highly-figured.

Grains are typically straight, although they can be wavy or interlocked, and the wood is fine textured and has a good natural luster.

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Sustainability: Andiroba is not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, although a single species from Ecuador, Carapa Megistocarpa, is listed as endangered due to a population reduction of over 50% in the past three generations, caused by a decline in its natural range.

Common Uses: Veneer, plywood, cabinetry, furniture, flooring, boat decking, interior trim, stairs and turned objects.

Comments: When quartersawn, Andiroba can exhibit a ribbon figure that looks similar to Sapele. While also tauted as a Mahogany substitute, Andiroba is not commonly seen in the US.

The wood slightly darkens as it dries and will continue to darken with repeated exposure to UV rays.