Brazilian Cherry, also known as Jatoba, is one of the most recognizable hardwood flooring species because of its rich color and distinctive natural beauty. When freshly milled and installed, Jatoba typically has deep reddish brown tones with warm orange and sometimes subtle salmon undertones. It’s magnificence comes from its appearance changing through exposure to sunlight, gradually creating a warmer and more mature appearance.
During the early stages of exposure, Brazilian Cherry often becomes richer and more vibrant. The reddish tones can become deeper and more pronounced, giving the floor a warm and luxurious appearance. As the wood continues to receive sunlight, the color gradually begins to soften. Over time, the intense red tones can transition toward warmer amber, golden brown, and reddish brown shades.
The rate of color change depends on the amount of light the flooring receives. A Jatoba floor located in a room with large south facing windows may change more quickly than a floor installed in a darker area of the home. Direct sunlight has a particularly strong effect, although normal indoor lighting can also contribute to gradual changes in appearance.
One of the most important things to understand about Jatoba is that its initial appearance represents only one stage of its natural development. Homeowners who choose Brazilian Cherry should expect the flooring to develop a patina as it ages. This transformation is part of the natural character of the species and is one of the reasons Jatoba has remained a popular choice for distinctive hardwood floors.
After approximately six months of sunlight exposure, many Jatoba floors will already show a noticeable difference from their original freshly installed appearance. The wood may appear warmer, richer, and more uniform. However, the transformation does not stop at six months. Brazilian Cherry can continue changing gradually for years as it is exposed to natural and artificial light.
This natural color development is an important part of the appeal of Brazilian Cherry. Rather than remaining static, the flooring evolves with the home. Its deep initial tones gradually develop into a mature and inviting palette that can complement both traditional and contemporary interiors.
The natural color change in Brazilian Cherry is primarily caused by exposure to ultraviolet light. Like many natural wood species, Jatoba reacts to sunlight through a process called photochemical oxidation. As the wood is exposed to light, compounds within the wood react and gradually alter its appearance. This means that a newly installed Jatoba floor can look significantly different after several months or years.
For homeowners considering Brazilian Cherry flooring, it is helpful to think of the original color as the beginning of the floor’s story rather than its final appearance. With time and exposure to light, Jatoba develops a unique character and patina that makes each floor increasingly distinctive.
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