Ipe (Brazilian Walnut)
Handroanthus spp. (formerly Tabebuia spp.) • Hardwood (Exotic/Tropical)
Grain Pattern
Straight to irregular or interlocked grain with a fine to medium texture. Visible ribbon figure potential and fine vessel lines.
Color Description
Heartwood is a reddish brown to olive-brown, sometimes with darker blackish streaks. Shows a yellowish-green powder (lapachol) in pores. Darkens with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
3,510 lbf (Extremely Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable: Excellent resistance to rot, termites, and fungal decay. Often rated for 25+ years in ground contact.
Common Uses
Decking, exterior siding, boardwalks, flooring, docks, heavy construction, and tool handles.
Geographic Origin
Central and South America (primarily Brazil)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$15.00 - $25.00 per board foot depending on thickness and certified status.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern stock; shows signs of rough-sawn industrial processing and minimal weathering patina suggesting it is less than 5 years old.
Sustainability Status
Recently added to CITES Appendix II (2024); listed as Least Concern on IUCN but faces significant illegal logging pressure; FSC certification is highly recommended.
Workability
Difficult to work due to extreme density and blunting effect on tools. Requires carbide-tipped blades. Glues poorly due to natural oils. Pre-drilling is mandatory.
Notable Features
Extremely heavy, sinks in water, high fire resistance (Class A rating), contains lapachol dust which can cause skin irritation.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils specifically formulated for exotic hardwoods (e.g., Ipe Oil). Film finishes like polyurethane are prone to peeling due to natural surface oils.
Identification Confidence
High; the distinctive olive-brown hue, tight grain architecture, extreme density visible in the rough-cut fibers, and characteristic pore structure are hallmarks of Ipe.