Tatabu

A strong, stable tropical hardwood prized for durability, versatility, and clean machining.

Common Name(s): Tatabu, Tattabu, Teta, Teta Wood

Scientific Name: Diplotropis purpurea

Distribution: Guyana, Suriname, Northern Brazil, Eastern Amazon Basin

Tatabu is a durable, medium‑to‑high density hardwood known for its strength, stability, and excellent machining characteristics. Native to Guyana and the eastern Amazon region, Tatabu is widely used in furniture, cabinetry, flooring, millwork, and general construction. Its warm brown colour, fine texture, and straight grain make it a versatile species suitable for both interior and exterior applications. Tatabu offers a dependable balance of workability, durability, and dimensional stability, making it a favourite among craftsmen and builders.

Key Attributes

Appearance

Colour

Light brown to medium brown, often with subtle reddish or golden tones

Grain

Straight to slightly interlocked

Texture

Fine to medium

Density

Medium–Heavy

Performance

Workability

Moderate (machines cleanly with sharp tools)

Durability

Durable

Stability

Good dimensional stability

Technical Information

Property	Value
Janka Hardness	1,700–2,000 lbf
Modulus of Rupture	14,000–17,000 psi
Modulus of Elasticity	1,800,000–2,100,000 psi
Density	48–56 lbs/ft³ (avg = 52)
Crushing Strength	8,000–9,500 psi
Shrinkage (Radial)	3.8%
Shrinkage (Tangential)	6.8%
Shrinkage (Volumetric)	10.6%
T/R Ratio	1.8
Workability	Moderate (sharp tools recommended)
Planing	Good with carbide tooling
Sanding	Excellent
Finishing	Accepts oils, stains and varnish well
Stability	Good dimensional stability
Durability	Durable (resists decay and insects)
Moisture Movement	Moderate