Padauk (African Padauk)
Pterocarpus soyauxii · Exotic/Tropical
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical
- Origin
- Central and tropical West Africa
- Hardness
- 1,970 lbf (Very Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable with excellent resistance to rot, decay, and termite attacks
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Straight to interlocked grain with a somewhat coarse texture and moderate natural luster
Color & Appearance
Vibrant vivid red to brownish-red heartwood that naturally darkens to a deep rich brown or purplish-brown over time when exposed to UV light; sharply demarcated pale whitish sapwood
Hardness (Janka)
1,970 lbf (Very Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable with excellent resistance to rot, decay, and termite attacks
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- USD 10.00 to USD 18.00 per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern stock, freshly milled to a few years old
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices, listed as least concern on the IUCN Red List, widely available in commerce
Common Uses
Fine furniture, turning, cabinetry, musical instruments, flooring, and decorative inlay work
Geographic Origin
Central and tropical West Africa
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though interlocked grain can cause tearout during planing; glues and finishes well
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil and lacquer finishes very well; water-based finishes may require a sealer due to natural extractives
Notable Features
Distinctive vibrant red color, natural oils that can sometimes interfere with gluing if not wiped down, moderate weight
