Sapele
Entandrophragma cylindricum • Hardwood / Exotic
Grain Pattern
Usually interlocked or wavy with a uniform ribbon-stripe figure when quarter-sawn; fine uniform texture and natural luster.
Color Description
Heartwood is a golden to dark reddish brown, darkening with age and light. Sapwood is distinctively pale yellow. Chatoyance is common in quarter-sawn faces.
Hardness Rating
1,410 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable to Durable; heartwood shows good resistance to rot and decay, though it is susceptible to some insect attacks.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, boat building, musical instruments (especially guitar backs and sides), veneer, and high-end exterior trim.
Geographic Origin
Native to tropical Africa (West and Central Africa).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$8.00 - $12.00 per board foot depending on figure intensity.
Wood Age Estimate
The sample appears newly machined or surfaced, showing minimal oxidation or wear, likely aged 1-5 years post-processing.
Sustainability Status
Listed on the IUCN Red List as Vulnerable due to a population reduction of over 20% in the last three generations. Not currently CITES listed, but FSC-certified stock is available.
Workability
Generally easy to work with tools, but interlocked grain can cause significant tearout during planing or surfacing. It glues, finishes, and takes screws well.
Notable Features
Features a distinct, cedar-like scent when being worked. Known for the 'ribbon' figure and high density which provides good acoustic resonance.
Finish Recommendations
Takes all finishes well; clear oil or lacquer is recommended to enhance the natural chatoyance and ribbon grain. Filling pores may be necessary for a mirror finish.
Identification Confidence
High; the reddish-brown color, visible pore structure, and characteristic ribbon-like interlocked grain are diagnostic of Entandrophragma species, most likely Sapele.