Sapele (alternatively African Mahogany or Utile)
Entandrophragma cylindricum • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Interlocked, quarter-sawn producing a characteristic ribbon stripe pattern. The grain is fine to medium texture with uniform pores.
Color Description
Heartwood is a golden to dark reddish brown. Color tends to darken with age. It displays a medium to high natural luster and noticeable chatoyance (light-induced shimmer).
Hardness Rating
1,410 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable to Durable; heartwood is resistant to rot and decay, though it is susceptible to some insect attacks.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, boat building, musical instruments (especially guitar backs and sides), veneer, and exterior joinery.
Geographic Origin
Tropical Africa (West and Central Africa)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $10.00 per board foot
Wood Age Estimate
Modern cut (less than 10 years); shows clean mechanical milling marks at the bottom edge and minimal oxidation or UV graying.
Sustainability Status
Listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List due to a population reduction of over 20% in the last three generations; not currently CITES listed.
Workability
Generally easy to work with machines, but the interlocked grain can cause significant tearout during planing or surfacing. Glues and finishes well.
Notable Features
Distinct, cedar-like scent when being worked. Known for the striking ribbon-stripe figure when quarter-sawn. High tannin content can react with iron.
Finish Recommendations
Takes all finishes well. A grain filler is recommended if a glass-smooth surface is desired due to open pores. Teak oil or lacquer enhances the ribbon figure.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of the reddish-brown hue, tight ribbon-stripe grain, and the specific distribution of deep vessel pores is classic for Sapele.