Leopardwood (or Lace-wood)
Roupala montana (formerly R. brasiliense) • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Strongly quarter-sawn with very large medullary rays creating a distinctive 'leopard' or 'scale-like' figure; grain is typically straight or slightly interlocked with a coarse and uneven texture.
Color Description
Heartwood is a medium to dark reddish-brown with grayish or light-brown rays that create a prominent spotted appearance; luster is moderate to high; darkens slightly with age to a deep amber-brown.
Hardness Rating
2,150 lbf (Very Hard)
Durability Rating
Durable; excellent resistance to rot and decay, though it is seldom used in outdoor applications where decay is a primary concern.
Common Uses
Veneer, cabinetry, fine furniture, musical instruments (guitars), turned objects, knife handles, and small specialty wood items.
Geographic Origin
Central and South America (principally Brazil)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$15.00 - $25.00 per board foot (pricing varies significantly based on the intensity of the fleck/figure).
Wood Age Estimate
Indeterminate from sample, though the oxidation level suggests it is a seasoned piece rather than fresh-cut green wood.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; generally considered a sustainable alternative to more endangered tropical woods.
Workability
Fairly difficult to work; the high density and large rays cause significant tearout during planing and can dull cutters quickly. Gluing and finishing are generally good, though pre-boring for screws is mandatory.
Notable Features
Highly distinctive 'snake-skin' visual appearance due to wide wood rays; may cause skin irritation or respiratory issues in sensitive individuals due to dust.
Finish Recommendations
High-gloss finishes like polyurethane or lacquer help emphasize the chatoyance of the rays; penetrating oils (tung or linseed) also work well to deepen the reddish-brown tones.
Identification Confidence
High; the large, lace-like medullary rays shown in this quarter-sawn orientation are a diagnostic anatomical feature of the Proteaceae family, specifically Leopardwood.