Avodire is another wood sometimes utilized as a Mahogany substitute (which is appropriate, since both are in the Meliaceae family), with similar aesthetics and cooperative working properties. Typical colors range from a pale yellow to cream, and a variety of figured grain patterns are commonly found — typically accompanied by dramatic levels of chatoyance — which makes it very popular with veneer mills. Its sap can be difficult to differentiate from the heartwood. While its grain patterns can be straight, wavy, irregular or interlocked, its texture is fine and it has an impressive natural luster.

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Sustainability: This species is not listed in the CITES Appendices, but is listed as “Vulnerable” on the IUCN Red List.

Common Uses: Veneer, cabinetry, furniture, millwork, and plywood.

Comments: Highly-figured pieces can be quite stunning. The wood is very stable, and has an excellent strength-to-weight ratio. The wood glues and finishes well, and, overall, has working properties very similar to mahogany.

Continued UV-ray exposure turns Avodire’s color to more of a darker golden yellow.