Mesquite Prosopis glandulosa Appearance Color: Light brown to dark reddish brown. Grain: High in character, with ingrown bark and mineral streaks. Most commonly used in flooring as end-grain block, which has small irregular cracks radiating across the grain. Variations Within Species And Grades: One grade; moderate color variations. Properties Hardness/Janka: 2345; 82% HARDER THAN Northern red oak. Dimensional Stability: Excellent (change coefficient .00129; 65% more stable than red oak). Durability: Dense and very strong. End-grain cut has excellent resistance to abrasion and shock. Workability Sawing/Machining: Very good machining qualities. Sanding: Plainsawn can be sanded to a smooth surface; end-grain requires #16 grit sandpaper to flatten. Nailing: Good holding ability, but splits easily. Finishing: No known problems. Comments: End-grain block usage results in a hard, high-wear surface. produces only small size boards. Cost (relative to plainsawn select red oak) Multiplier: 2.50 Availability Moderately available. Source: National Wood Flooring Association