CUMARU DECKING

At CoP19 in Panama in November 2022, the CITES parties voted to add Cumaru (Dipteryx) to Appendix II, along with Ipe (Handroanthus, Roseodendron and Tabebuia). The listing carried a two-year delay and took effect on November 25, 2024. It covers logs, sawn wood, veneer sheets, plywood and transformed wood.

Appendix II is not a ban. It requires an export permit from the country of origin, supported by a finding that the harvest was legal and will not damage the species in the wild. In practice that means longer lead times, tighter and less predictable supply, and more price movement than Cumaru carried historically.

Nova no longer stocks Cumaru. Certain sizes may be available by special order — talk to us about the project and we will tell you honestly whether it is worth waiting for.

Cumaru was one of the first exotic wood alternatives to Ipe for use as decking. Cumaru decking is imported from the same regions as Ipe and they are both similar in look. In fact, originally Cumaru was mixed in with Ipe and the two were sold together. Cumaru is often separated into two color separations: light (also known as Yellow Cumaru, or Brazilian Teak), and dark (also known as Red Cumaru, Brazilian Chestnut, or Southern Chestnut).

Nova sources both Yellow Cumaru and Red Cumaru; however, it is common to find reddish pieces in the Yellow Cumaru and yellow pieces in the Red Cumaru. Many importers today are buying mixed color Cumaru which looks fantastic in person. The natural color variation and range of hues from honey brown to brownish red are truly stunning.

Cumaru was one of the first exotic alternatives to Ipe, valued for density, durability and a honey-to-reddish brown color. Several species we stock cover the same ground:

• Batu (Red Balau) — the classic mahogany look, excellent color consistency, kiln dried.
• Bangkirai (Golden Balau) — outstanding strength and hardness, 25 year warranty, the closest match for demanding commercial decks.
• Torem (South Pacific Redwood) — very high density, heavy quartersawn, weathers to a silver patina.
• Genuine Mahogany — plantation grown in Fiji, the most sustainable option we carry.
• Doju — a close cousin to genuine Ipe and the most cost-effective Ipe alternative we stock.

None of these are CITES listed. See them side by side on our hardwood decking page.