Sapele
Entandrophragma cylindricum · Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Origin
- Native to tropical Africa (West and Central Africa).
- Hardness
- 1,510 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable to Durable. Good resistance to rot and decay, though it can be susceptible to some insect attacks (powder post beetles).
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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 & Appearance
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 (Janka)
1,510 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable to Durable. Good resistance to rot and decay, though it can be susceptible to some insect attacks (powder post beetles).
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.
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).
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.
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.
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.
