Iroko
Milicia excelsa • Exotic/Tropical
Grain Pattern
Interlocked grain with a medium to coarse texture; produces a distinct striped figure when quarter-sawn. Natural luster is prominent.
Color Description
Heartwood is typically a yellow to golden brown, maturing to a darker rich brown over time. Sapwood is clearly demarcated in pale yellow. High light exposure accelerates darkening.
Hardness Rating
1,260 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. Excellent resistance to both rot and insect attack; often used as a teak substitute for outdoor applications.
Common Uses
Veneer, flooring, boat building, cabinetry, outdoor furniture, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Tropical Africa (West and East Africa).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $15.00 per board foot.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled to slightly aged (less than 1-2 years). The golden hue suggests it has not yet undergone full darkened oxidation.
Sustainability Status
IUCN Red List: Lower Risk/Near Threatened. Not CITES listed but subject to harvesting regulations in certain range countries.
Workability
Generally easy to work, though interlocked grain can cause tearout during surfacing. Contains calcium carbonate deposits which can dull cutting edges. Glues and finishes well.
Notable Features
Often called African Teak. Known for its stability and high oil content. Dust can be a sensitizer causing respiratory or skin irritation.
Finish Recommendations
Responds excellently to oil-based finishes which enhance the depth of color. Teak oil or Danish oil is recommended for outdoor use; polyurethane for indoor.
Identification Confidence
Medium. The golden-brown hue, coarse texture, and characteristic large pores visible in the face grain are indicative of Iroko, though it can resemble Teak or Balau.