Tulipwood (Brazilian)
Dalbergia decipularis · Hardwood (Exotic/Tropical)
- Type
- Hardwood (Exotic/Tropical)
- Origin
- Northeastern Brazil
- Hardness
- 2,500 lbf (Extremely Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable; highly resistant to rot and insect attack, though rarely used in outdoor settings due to cost and size.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular or interlocked; fine, uniform texture with a high natural luster. The sample shows distinct yellowish-pink background with reddish-violet streaks.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood features a creamy yellow or light pinkish-yellow background with vivid stripes of pink, red, and violet. Sapwood is a pale yellow. Colors tend to fade to a more muted brown over time if not protected from UV.
Hardness (Janka)
2,500 lbf (Extremely Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable; highly resistant to rot and insect attack, though rarely used in outdoor settings due to cost and size.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $50.00 to $80.00 per board foot; typically sold in small blanks or by weight/unit due to rarity.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern sample (likely 1-5 years post-processing); fresh oxidation levels and sharp mechanical cuts suggest recent milling.
- Sustainability Status
- Listed in CITES Appendix II (includes all Dalbergia species) and categorized as Near Threatened by the IUCN Red List.
Common Uses
Inlays, veneers, fine furniture, turned objects, musical instrument parts, and jewelry boxes.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern Brazil
Workability
Difficult to work with hand tools due to extreme density; can cause blunting of cutters. Exceptional for turning and takes a very high natural polish. Glues well despite natural oils.
Finish Recommendations
Lacquer or clear polyurethane with UV inhibitors to preserve the vibrant pink/violet colors. Can also be buffed with wax to a high luster without film finishes.
Notable Features
Distinctive fragrant rose-like scent when being worked; belongs to the true Rosewood genus. Dense and heavy with high oil content.
