Goncalo Alves
Goncalo Alves (sold as Tigerwood in flooring) earns its name — the irregular dark streaks on orange-tan are genuinely tiger-like and no two boards are the same. Design restraint is the key to using it well: in flooring or simple furniture forms, the pattern does the work; in complex pieces, it can become visually overwhelming. Important note: it's in the cashew/mango family (Anacardiaceae), so if you're sensitive to those plants or poison ivy, take extra dust precautions — cross-reactions are possible.
- Overusing the pattern — it reads best as flooring or simple accent pieces, not complex designs
- Ignoring the Anacardiaceae allergy risk — cross-reactions with cashew, mango, and poison ivy are possible
- Expecting consistent pattern matching across boards — no two pieces are alike; plan accordingly
Tan to orange-brown heartwood with dramatic irregular dark streaks — the 'tiger stripe' pattern that gives it its common name. No two boards are alike. Color darkens with age. Sapwood is pale and clearly demarcated.
Dense but machines reasonably well with sharp carbide. Fine texture finishes to an excellent surface — one of the more rewarding exotics to sand and finish. The dramatic grain pattern means design restraint matters: let the figure lead and keep the piece simple.
| Region | Availability |
|---|---|
| North America | Specialty importers only |
| Europe | Specialty importers only |
| South America | Regional / select dealers |
| Australia/NZ | Rare / not commonly imported |
| Asia | Specialty importers only |
| Africa | Rare / not commonly imported |