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Cambara (Erisma uncinatum) Hardwood
Cambara (Erisma uncinatum) is a South American hardwood that offers an affordable entry point into tropical hardwood decking and siding. With a warm reddish-brown color and straight grain, Cambara pro...
Janka Hardness
850 lbf
Decay Resistance
Moderate
Lifespan
15-25 years
Density
33 lbs/ft³
What Is Cambara Wood?
Cambara (Erisma uncinatum) is a South American hardwood that offers an affordable entry point into tropical hardwood decking and siding. With a warm reddish-brown color and straight grain, Cambara provides an attractive natural wood appearance at a fraction of the cost of premium species like Ipe or Cumaru.
At 850 lbf Janka hardness, Cambara is softer than the premium tropical species but still harder than most domestic softwoods used for decking. It offers moderate natural decay resistance and is a solid choice for projects where budget is a primary concern but natural wood aesthetics are desired.
Cambara is relatively easy to work with standard tools and takes stain and finish well. It's commonly used for siding, fencing, pergolas, and residential decking in moderate-climate regions. For extreme durability and longevity, tropical hardwoods like Ipe or Cumaru are better choices, but Cambara fills an important niche as an affordable natural hardwood option.
Key Facts
- Most affordable tropical hardwood option available
- Warm reddish-brown color with straight, attractive grain
- Easy to work with — no special tools or pre-drilling required in most cases
- Moderate natural decay resistance for above-ground applications
- Best suited for covered or semi-protected outdoor applications
- Takes stain and finish well for custom color matching
Why Choose Cambara?
Affordable
The most budget-friendly tropical hardwood — real wood aesthetics at an accessible price
Attractive Appearance
Warm reddish-brown color with straight grain that rivals more expensive species visually
Easy to Work
Machines easily with standard tools — no carbide bits or pre-drilling required
Good for Siding
Excellent for vertical applications like siding and fencing where surface wear is minimal
Takes Finish Well
Absorbs stain and finish evenly for consistent color and protection
Lightweight
Easier to handle and install than dense tropical hardwoods like Ipe
Common Applications
Cambara is well-suited for a range of interior and exterior applications.
Exterior Siding
Shiplap, rainscreen, and board-and-batten siding applications
Fencing
Privacy and decorative fencing with natural wood warmth
Covered Decking
Decking under covered porches and pavilions with reduced weather exposure
Pergolas & Arbors
Garden structures and landscape features
Interior Paneling
Wall paneling and ceiling treatments for warm, natural interiors
Furniture
Outdoor furniture for covered or semi-protected areas
Cambara by Application
Learn how Cambara performs across different project types.
Cambara Siding
Cambara siding is the most affordable way to achieve genuine tropical hardwood exterior cladding. Its warm reddish-brown color and straight grain create an attractive facade at a fraction of the cost of Ipe or Cumaru cladding. Cambara works beautifully in shiplap, rainscreen, and board-and-batten configurations, and its moderate density provides natural weather protection for vertical applications where surface wear is minimal. The wood is easy to cut, nail, and install — no special tools required. For budget-conscious projects where the warm aesthetic of tropical hardwood is desired without the premium price, Cambara siding delivers excellent visual value.
Explore all siding optionsCambara Fencing
Cambara fencing offers natural hardwood beauty at an accessible price point for residential privacy barriers and property boundaries. The warm reddish-brown color provides an upscale appearance that elevated standard treated-pine fencing, and the wood's moderate decay resistance serves well in fence applications where boards are above ground and have good air circulation. Cambara fence boards are lightweight and easy to work with, making installation straightforward. With annual maintenance (UV-protective stain), Cambara fencing provides 15-25 years of attractive service — a solid middle ground between budget treated lumber and premium tropical hardwood fencing.
Explore all fencing optionsCambara Covered Decking
Cambara performs well for decking under covered porches, pavilions, and screened rooms where direct weather exposure is reduced. In these semi-protected environments, Cambara's moderate decay resistance is sufficient for long-term performance, and its warm color and attractive grain create an inviting outdoor living surface. The wood is comfortable underfoot and stays cooler than darker, denser tropical species. For covered decking projects where Ipe or Cumaru budgets aren't feasible, Cambara provides genuine tropical hardwood character at a budget-friendly price — especially when paired with annual protective finishing.
Explore all decking optionsInstallation & Working Tips
- Standard woodworking tools work well — no special carbide tooling required
- Pre-drill near board ends to prevent splitting
- Use stainless steel or coated fasteners for exterior applications
- Apply a penetrating wood preservative for maximum outdoor longevity
- Allow 7-10 days for acclimation before installation
- Apply end sealer to all cut ends to prevent moisture entry
For complete guidance, see our installation guide and custom milling services.
Maintenance & Care
Cambara benefits from regular maintenance to maximize its outdoor lifespan. Unlike premium tropical hardwoods, protective treatment is recommended.
Protective Finishing
Apply a UV-protective penetrating oil or stain annually for best outdoor performance. This is more important for Cambara than for denser tropical species, as its moderate density provides less inherent weather protection.
Cleaning
Clean with mild soap and water or a deck cleaner. Avoid harsh chemicals. Regular cleaning prevents mildew buildup and extends the wood's appearance and lifespan.
Inspection
Check annually for signs of decay, especially at end grain and areas near ground level. Address any issues promptly with wood preservative treatment.
Important Considerations
Lower Durability
Significantly less durable than Ipe, Cumaru, or Massaranduba. Best for covered or semi-protected applications.
Requires More Maintenance
Annual protective treatment is recommended for outdoor use — more maintenance than premium tropical hardwoods.
Not for Ground Contact
Should not be used in direct ground contact without preservative treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cambara
Quick answers to common questions
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