MATERIALS / WOOD
Katalox
Swartzia cubensis
Very dense, with dark heartwood and pale sapwood that create contrasting streaks and edges.
- Scientific name
- Swartzia cubensis
- Origin
- Tropical forests of the Yucatán Peninsula
- Color
- Dark heartwood with pale sapwood
- Hardness
- Very high
ABOUT KATALOX
Katalox is one of Mexico's densest woods. Its heartwood ranges from deep brown to almost black and contrasts with the pale sapwood visible in some boards; it is also known as Mexican royal ebony.
Its density makes it highly wear-resistant. We use it for floors, countertops and details, and as a contrast next to light woods such as macuil.
It's so dense that it is worked slowly and demands sharp tools and precise joinery. It's rarely used for large pieces: it shines in the details.
IN THE WORKSHOP
What we use it for.
- High-traffic floors and floorboards.
- Countertops.
- Details and contrast pieces.
