Ipe (Brazilian Walnut)
Handroanthus spp. (formerly Tabebuia spp.) • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Typically straight but can be interlocked or wavy with a fine to medium texture. Shows cathedral patterning in flat-sawn sections with prominent vessel lines.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from reddish brown to yellowish olive brown or blackish brown. Often contains lighter or darker streaks. Lapachol powder in pores can appear as yellow dust. Darkens significantly and loses luster when weathered or aged.
Hardness Rating
3,510 lbf (Extremely Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable: Highly resistant to rot, termites, and wood-boring insects. Class A fire rating. Highly resistant to weathering.
Common Uses
Exterior decking, dock surfacing, boardwalks, heavy timber construction, flooring, and tool handles.
Geographic Origin
Central and South America (primarily Brazil) and parts of the Caribbean.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$15.00 - $25.00 per board foot depending on dimensions and grade.
Wood Age Estimate
Approximately 10-20 years based on surface oxidation, checking (fine cracks), and the presence of greyish patina associated with UV exposure.
Sustainability Status
Effective 2024, Handroanthus species are listed in CITES Appendix II. IUCN Red List status varies by species (some Endangered). FSC certification is available but harder to source.
Workability
Difficult to work due to extreme density and hardness. Dulls cutting edges rapidly. Interlocked grain can cause tearout. Glues poorly due to natural oils; requires surface wiping with solvent before bonding.
Notable Features
Extremely heavy/sinks in water. Contains lapachol, which can cause skin irritation/dermatitis. Very low moisture absorption and exceptional fire resistance.
Finish Recommendations
Requires penetrating oils formulated for dense exotic hardwoods (e.g., tung-oil based sealers). Does not take film-forming finishes like polyurethane well due to oil content and expansion stresses.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High; the combination of olive-brown hue, fine checking patterns, visible vessel distribution, and the characteristic oily, dense surface texture is highly diagnostic of weathered Ipe.