Iroko
Milicia excelsa (syn. Chlorophora excelsa) • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Interlocked grain with a medium to coarse texture, showing some ribbon stripe figure on quartersawn surfaces and open pores typical of tropical species.
Color Description
Heartwood is typically a golden to medium brown; color tends to darken over time. Pale yellow sapwood is clearly demarcated from heartwood. It can exhibit a slight chatoyance.
Hardness Rating
1,260 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and insect attack, often used as a substitute for Teak in marine and outdoor applications.
Common Uses
Boat building, decking, outdoor furniture, flooring, cabinetry, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Tropical Africa (from Ivory Coast to Ethiopia and south to Angola and Mozambique).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $15.00 per board foot depending on region and availability.
Wood Age Estimate
The sample appears recently milled or surfaced, showing minimal oxidation or UV-induced darkening, likely less than 1-2 years since processing.
Sustainability Status
Listed as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List; not currently CITES listed, but habitat loss is a concern. FSC-certified stock is sometimes available.
Workability
Generally easy to work, though interlocked grain can cause tearout during surfacing. Contains calcium carbonate deposits which can dull cutting edges quickly.
Notable Features
Often referred to as 'African Teak', though unrelated. It has no characteristic odor and can cause skin and respiratory irritation in some woodworkers.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes well, though oil-based finishes can enhance the natural golden-brown luster. Clear UV-inhibiting topcoats are recommended to slow darkening.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High; the yellowish-brown hue, large open pores, and interlocked grain structure are consistent with Milicia excelsa, frequently found in similar dimensional lumber formats.