Purpleheart
Peltogyne purpurea · Exotic/Tropical
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical
- Origin
- Central and South America (ranging from Mexico down through Brazil)
- Hardness
- 2,520 lbf (Extremely Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable
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Grain Pattern
Usually straight, but can also be wavy or irregular with a medium texture
Color & Appearance
Freshly cut heartwood is a dull brown, but upon exposure to UV light and air, it rapidly oxidizes to a striking, vibrant purple. Over time with continued light exposure, it darkens to a deep brownish purple or dark chocolate brown.
Hardness (Janka)
2,520 lbf (Extremely Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 10.00 to 18.00 USD per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be moderately recent (several months to a few years old) based on the visible surface oxidation turning from dull brown toward a deep purple-brown hue
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on the CITES appendices or the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, though selective harvesting practices apply in native ranges
Common Uses
Fine furniture, flooring, heavy construction, boat building, turnings, and specialty items like cue sticks and knife handles
Geographic Origin
Central and South America (ranging from Mexico down through Brazil)
Workability
Challenging due to extreme hardness and density. Tends to dull cutting edges quickly. Heating the wood slightly can help prevent gumming from its natural resins, and sharp carbide tools are recommended
Finish Recommendations
Finishes well if properly prepared, though the natural oils can sometimes interfere with adhesion. Waxes, oils, or a UV-inhibiting clear lacquer/polyurethane help maintain the vibrant purple color longer by slowing down the UV-induced darkening process
Notable Features
Contains a gummy resin that can ooze when heated by dull tools; famous for its dramatic color transition from dull brown to vivid purple upon light exposure
