Sapele
Entandrophragma cylindricum • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Interlocked, wavy, and ribbon-like grain; frequently displays a distinct ribbon-stripe figure when quarter-sawn but appears slightly diffuse and muddled in this flat-sawn/oblique sample.
Color Description
Heartwood is a golden to dark reddish brown, significantly darker than the pale yellow sapwood. It possesses a high natural luster and tends to darken with age and UV exposure (patina development).
Hardness Rating
1,410 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable to Durable; generally resistant to rot and termite attack, though susceptible to powder post beetles.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, boat building, musical instruments (guitars), veneer, and decorative trim.
Geographic Origin
Tropical Africa (Western and Central regions)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $12.00 per board foot
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively recent/modern (under 10 years). The light oxidation and mechanical rough-cut edges suggest a contemporary mill offcut.
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 availability is moderate.
Workability
Generally works well, though the interlocked grain can cause significant tearout during planing or surfacing. It has a slight blunting effect on cutters due to its density.
Notable Features
Distinctive cedar-like scent when freshly cut; contains natural oils that can sometimes interfere with glue bonding if surfaces are not freshly prepped.
Finish Recommendations
Takes finishes exceptionally well. Polyurethane, lacquer, or penetrating oils like Danish oil enhance the deep chatoyance of the grain.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of reddish-brown hue, medium-to-large open pores (vessel elements), and characteristic interlocked grain pattern is diagnostic for Sapele.