Sapele
Entandrophragma cylindricum • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Interlocked grain, often wavy, showing a characteristic ribbon-stripe figure when quarter-sawn. Face grain exhibits visible coarse-textured pores (diffuse-porous).
Color Description
Medium to dark reddish-brown heartwood, often with a golden luster. Sapwood is a pale yellow to white. It darkens significantly with age and light exposure, developing a rich mahogany-like patina.
Hardness Rating
1,510 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable to Durable. Good resistance to rot and decay, though it can be susceptible to some insect attacks (powder post beetles).
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, boat building, musical instruments (mostly guitar backs and sides), veneer, and high-end exterior joinery.
Geographic Origin
Native to tropical Africa (West and Central Africa).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$8.00 - $15.00 per board foot depending on thickness and quality of figure.
Wood Age Estimate
Indeterminate from photo; freshly cut or planed appearance suggests modern stock (less than 5-10 years post-harvest/processing).
Sustainability Status
Listed on the IUCN Red List as Vulnerable due to a population reduction of over 20% in the last three generations. FSC-certified sources are available but becoming more restricted.
Workability
Fairly easy to work with hand and machine tools, though the interlocked grain can cause significant tearout during planing or surfacing. Sharp tools and low cutting angles are recommended.
Notable Features
Distinctive cedar-like scent when freshly cut. Can cause skin irritation and respiratory issues in sensitive individuals due to fine dust. Highly valued for its chatoyance and ribbon figure.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes well. Pore filling is often required for a mirror-smooth finish due to the open grain. Natural oils like Tung or Danish oil highlight the depth of the figure beautifully.
Identification Confidence
High. The combination of rich reddish-brown color, distinct diffuse-porous vessels visible on the face, and the specific texture of the fiber is highly representative of Sapele.