Black-Kakaralli

A dense, highly durable tropical hardwood valued for strength, stability, and long‑term performance.

Common Name(s): Black Kakaralli, Kakaralli, Wallaba‑type hardwood

Scientific Name: Eschweilera spp. / Lecythis spp. (varies by region)

Distribution: Guyana, Suriname, Northern Brazil

Black‑Kakaralli is a dense, high‑performance tropical hardwood known for its exceptional durability, strength, and resistance to decay. Native to Guyana and the northern Amazon basin, it is widely used in heavy construction, marine environments, and long‑life structural applications. Its fine texture, high density, and natural resistance to insects make it a reliable choice for demanding outdoor and industrial uses. When properly dried and machined, Black‑Kakaralli delivers decades of service with minimal maintenance.

Key Attributes

Appearance

Colour

Medium brown to dark brown, sometimes with reddish tones

Grain

Straight to slightly interlocked

Texture

Fine, uniform texture

Density

Very Hard

Performance

Workability

Difficult (high density + silica)

Durability

Very High

Stability

Good dimensional stability

Technical Information

Property	Value
Janka Hardness	1,280–2,480 lbf
Modulus of Rupture	10,870 psi (green) → 14,460 psi (12% MC)
Modulus of Elasticity	1,480,000 psi (green) → 1,760,000 psi (12% MC)
Density	48–74 lbs/ft³ (avg = 64)
Crushing Strength	6,370 psi (green) → 11,210 psi (12% MC)
Shrinkage (Radial)	5.8%
Shrinkage (Tangential)	10.3%
Shrinkage (Volumetric)	15.9%
T/R Ratio	1.8
Workability	Difficult (high density + silica)
Planing	Fair, with sharp tools
Sanding	Good
Finishing	Accepts oils and varnish well
Stability	Good dimensional stability
Durability	Excellent
Moisture Movement	Low–Moderate