Philippine Mahogany is a loose term that applies to a number of wood species coming from southeast Asia. Scientifically, the name Philippine Mahogany has been used to encompass most commercial lumber found in the Shorea genus, where it is very commonly used in its native Southeast Asia. There is an abundance of variety between the different species: each with different working properties, appearances, and mechanical strength values.
Five main groupings for Philippine Mahogany:
Light Red Meranti, Dark Red Meranti, White Meranti, Yellow Meranti, and Balau.
Other Common Names:
Meranti, Lauan (it bears no relation to what is considered to be “true” mahogany in the Swietenia and Khaya genera)
Color, Pattern, Texture:
Color can be highly variable depending upon the species: ranging from a pale straw color, to a darker reddish brown. Some species will have a coarse texture with medium to large pores. Grain is sometimes interlocked.
Common Uses and Applications:
Plywood, interior furniture, general construction, concrete forms, as well as a number of other general utility purposes and more
Typically easy to work, due to its low density. Though some rough or ragged surfaces may be left while sanding, and it may be necessary to sand up to a finer grit to obtain a satisfactory finish, depending on the species working with. Some species may have a slight blunting effect on tools due to small levels of silica present in the wood. Glues, stains, and finishes well.
Light Red Meranti
Dark Red Meranti