Tauroniro

A strong, durable Guyanese hardwood valued for stability, toughness, and long‑term performance

Common Name(s): Tauroniro, Tauronero, Guyanese Hardwood

Scientific Name: Humiria balsamifera (primary), Humiria spp.

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

Tauroniro is a dense, durable tropical hardwood known for its strength, stability, and resistance to wear. Native to Guyana and the eastern Amazon region, Tauroniro is widely used in flooring, furniture, cabinetry, millwork, and exterior applications. Its medium‑to‑dark brown colour, fine texture, and straight grain make it a versatile species suitable for both interior and exterior use. Tauroniro offers a dependable balance of durability, workability, and dimensional stability, making it a reliable choice for craftsmen and builders.

Key Attributes

Appearance

Colour

Medium brown to dark brown, sometimes with reddish undertones

Grain

Straight to slightly interlocked

Texture

Fine to medium

Density

Heavy

Performance

Workability

Moderate–Difficult (density + occasional silica)

Durability

Durable

Stability

Good dimensional stability

Technical Information

Property	Value
Janka Hardness	1,800–2,200 lbf
Modulus of Rupture	15,000–18,000 psi
Modulus of Elasticity	1,900,000–2,200,000 psi
Density	50–60 lbs/ft³ (avg ≈55)
Crushing Strength	8,500–10,500 psi
Shrinkage (Radial)	4.0%
Shrinkage (Tangential)	7.2%
Shrinkage (Volumetric)	11.2%
T/R Ratio	1.8
Workability	Moderate–Difficult (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