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Balsa
PropertyBalsa
Ochroma pyramidale
TypeHardwood
Cost$$ · Moderate
Hardness90 lbf
WorkabilityExcellent
Seasonal movementSmall
Outdoor-friendlyNo
OriginImported (Central/South America)
Commonly builtModel airplanes, Architectural models, Surfboard cores, Craft projects
OverviewOne of the lightest, softest commercial woods, used for models, prototypes, and lightweight cores rather than structural work.