Purpleheart
Peltogyne spp. · Exotic/Tropical
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical
- Origin
- Central and South America (from Mexico down through Brazil)
- Hardness
- 2,520 lbf - Extremely Hard
- Durability
- Very Durable with excellent resistance to decay, rot, and most insect attacks
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Grain Pattern
Straight to irregular grain with a medium to fine uniform texture
Color & Appearance
Freshly cut heartwood is a dull gray/brown, but upon exposure to UV light, it oxidizes to a vibrant deep purple. With further age and exposure, the color darkens to a rich dark brown with a purple hue.
Hardness (Janka)
2,520 lbf - Extremely Hard
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable with excellent resistance to decay, rot, and most insect attacks
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 10.00 to 20.00 USD per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively recent stock, showing some UV exposure with a transition toward deep purple
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on the CITES appendices or the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, though careful sourcing is advised to ensure legal and sustainable harvesting
Common Uses
Fine furniture, flooring, cabinetry, heavy construction, boat building, inlay, turnings, and specialty items
Geographic Origin
Central and South America (from Mexico down through Brazil)
Workability
Can be challenging due to its extreme hardness and density. It tends to dull cutting edges quickly and can gum up blades with its gummy resin when heated from friction. Glues and finishes well if surface oils are wiped clean.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane, lacquer, or hardening oils work well. A UV-blocking finish is recommended to help slow down the natural darkening process over time.
Notable Features
Contains a natural resin that can bleed when heated by dull tools; famous for its striking and natural vibrant purple color transformation upon UV exposure
