Purpleheart
Peltogyne spp. · Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Origin
- Central and South America (specifically Brazil, Guyana, and Suriname).
- Hardness
- 2,520 lbf (Extremely Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable; highly resistant to decay and most insect attacks, though it can be susceptible to marine borers.
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Grain Pattern
Usually straight, but can be wavy or interlocked. Texture is medium to fine with a natural luster. The sample shows a concentric flat-sawn appearance on the circular face.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is a dull grayish-purple when freshly cut, turning a deep eggplant purple upon exposure to UV light. Over time and further exposure, it can shift to a dark brown with a purple hue. Sapwood is typically a creamy white or pale yellow.
Hardness (Janka)
2,520 lbf (Extremely Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable; highly resistant to decay and most insect attacks, though it can be susceptible to marine borers.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $10.00 - $15.00 per board foot depending on width and figure.
- Wood Age Estimate
- The oxidation level suggests a seasoned piece (approx. 5-10 years post-finish); the purple shift is well-developed but starting to show signs of browning at the edges.
- Sustainability Status
- Not currently listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; generally considered a sustainable exotic wood.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, heavy construction, flooring, boatbuilding, chemical vats, tool handles, turning, and accent inlay.
Geographic Origin
Central and South America (specifically Brazil, Guyana, and Suriname).
Workability
Difficult due to extreme hardness. Can dull cutters quickly. If heated by high-speed tools, the wood exudes a gummy resin that can clog blades and sandpaper. Glues and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
UV-inhibiting finishes are highly recommended to preserve the purple color as long as possible. Film-building finishes like polyurethane or lacquer work well, but many prefer penetrating oils to highlight the grain.
Notable Features
Distinctive natural purple color; emits a mild, slightly unpleasant scent when worked; very dense and heavy; high tannin content.
