Purpleheart
Peltogyne spp. · Exotic/Tropical
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical
- Origin
- Central and South America (ranging from Mexico down through Brazil)
- Hardness
- 2,520 lbf (Extremely Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable
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Grain Pattern
Straight to irregular grain with a medium to fine uniform texture.
Color & Appearance
Freshly cut wood is a dull brown, but upon exposure to UV light and oxygen, it rapidly oxidizes to a vibrant, deep purple. With further aging and prolonged light exposure, it eventually turns a dark brown with a hint of purple.
Hardness (Janka)
2,520 lbf (Extremely Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 10.00 to 20.00 USD per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively fresh to moderately oxidized based on the visible purple tones.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices and generally not on the IUCN Red List, though selective harvesting of tropical timber applies.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, flooring, inlay, turning, heavy construction, boat building, and specialty items.
Geographic Origin
Central and South America (ranging from Mexico down through Brazil)
Workability
Can be challenging due to hardness and high density. It tends to dull cutting edges quickly. Heating the wood can cause resin to bleed to the surface, and gluing can be difficult due to natural oils.
Finish Recommendations
Takes a high polish well. Finishes such as clear lacquer, varnish, or oil work nicely, though UV-inhibiting finishes help slow down the inevitable darkening to brown.
Notable Features
Famous for its striking natural purple color. Contains a resin that can gum up tools and occasionally causes allergic reactions (respiratory irritation) when worked.
