Chechen
Metopium brownei
Genus: Metopium · Family: Anacardiaceae
Quick Facts
Wood Type
Hardwood
Native Range
Central America
Avg. Dried Weight
61 lb/ft³
Janka Hardness
2,250 lbf
Decay Resistance
Very Durable
Typical Color
Dark Brown
Stability
High
Outdoor Suitability
Good
Workability
Moderate
Availability
Limited
CITES
Unlisted
IUCN
Not Evaluated
Did You Know?
- •Chechen is harder than 80% of the 137 species in our database.
Janka Hardness Scale
Very Hard
Overview
Professional Summary
Chechen (Metopium brownei) is a dense Central American hardwood in the Anacardiaceae (cashew/poison ivy) family, known for its dramatic dark streaking and excellent natural durability. At 2,250 lbf Janka and 61 lb/ft³, it's extremely hard and durable — but its relation to poison ivy means it can cause severe allergic skin reactions.
In Plain English
Chechen is a gorgeous dark-streaked wood from Central America that's incredibly hard and durable. The catch? It's related to poison ivy and can cause nasty skin rashes in sensitive people. If you can handle it safely, the dark, dramatic grain patterns are spectacular.
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
Fine furniture, turned objects, flooring, and decorative items where its dramatic appearance is showcased.
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.
CAUTION: Related to poison ivy — can cause severe allergic skin reactions (contact dermatitis). Always wear gloves and respiratory protection.
Native Distribution
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Look-Alike Species
Woods with a similar dark brown color that are easily confused with Chechen. Recorded differences are shown where data exists; confirm identification with end-grain examination.
- • Harder (Janka 3,360 lbf)
- • Heavier (68 lb/ft³)
- • Texture: Medium to coarse
- • Softer (Janka 1,010 lbf)
- • Lighter (38 lb/ft³)
- • Decay: Durable
- • Harder (Janka 2,440 lbf)
- • Lighter (52 lb/ft³)
- • Texture: Medium to coarse
- • Harder (Janka 3,510 lbf)
- • Heavier (69 lb/ft³)
- • Texture: Fine to medium