Balsa
Ochroma pyramidale
Genus: Ochroma · Family: Malvaceae
Quick Facts
Wood Type
Hardwood
Native Range
South America, Central America
Avg. Dried Weight
9 lb/ft³
Janka Hardness
67 lbf
Decay Resistance
Perishable
Typical Color
White / Straw
Stability
Medium
Outdoor Suitability
Poor
Workability
Easy
Availability
Commercially Available
CITES
Unlisted
IUCN
Not Evaluated
Did You Know?
- •Balsa is softer than 100% of species in our database, making it one of the lightest and easiest to work by hand.
- •Balsa is remarkably light at just 9 lb/ft³ — less than half the weight of Oak.
Janka Hardness Scale
Very Soft
Overview
Professional Summary
Balsa (Ochroma pyramidale) is the lightest commercial timber in the world at just 9 lb/ft³ and 67 lbf Janka — lighter than most foams. Despite its extreme lightness, it has a remarkably high strength-to-weight ratio, making it essential for model aircraft, wind turbine blades, and lightweight composite sandwich cores.
In Plain English
Balsa is the lightest wood in the world — so light it almost floats in air. Everyone knows it from model airplanes and craft projects, but it's also critical for wind turbine blades and surfboards. You can cut it with a hobby knife and dent it with your fingernail.
Appearance
Technical Properties
Sources, Conditions & Safety
No documented references are attached to this profile yet. Its recorded values should not be treated as source-verified.
Wood dust & sensitivity
Species-specific safety information has not been documented here. Absence of a warning does not mean the wood is safe or non-allergenic.
Use dust extraction and appropriate protective equipment; consult occupational-safety guidance. This is not medical advice or food-contact approval.
Durability & Performance
Workability
Common Uses
Model aircraft, surfboard cores, wind turbine blades, theatrical props, composite sandwich panels, and packaging.
Sustainability & Trade
Listings are reference information, not proof of legal sourcing or certification. Verify current trade rules and supplier documentation before buying; absence of a note does not mean unrestricted trade.
Extremely fragile — no structural strength. Perishable without treatment. Absorbs moisture rapidly.
Native Distribution
Find Substitutes
AI-powered alternative species matching
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Species with similar characteristics and uses
Look-Alike Species
Woods with a similar white / straw color that are easily confused with Balsa. Recorded differences are shown where data exists; confirm identification with end-grain examination.
- • Harder (Janka 410 lbf)
- • Heavier (26 lb/ft³)
- • Texture: Fine, even
- • Harder (Janka 430 lbf)
- • Heavier (28 lb/ft³)
- • Decay: Non-Durable
- • Texture: Fine to medium
- • Harder (Janka 1,480 lbf)
- • Heavier (42 lb/ft³)
- • Decay: Non-Durable
- • Harder (Janka 1,630 lbf)
- • Heavier (47 lb/ft³)
- • Decay: Non-Durable
- • Texture: Fine