Iroko
Milicia excelsa · Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Origin
- Tropical Africa (West and East Africa)
- Hardness
- 1,260 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable; highly resistant to rot and insect attack, often used as a more affordable substitute for Teak.
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Grain Pattern
Interlocked grain with a medium to coarse texture; features long, vertical grain lines with visible ribbon-like streaks and open pores.
Color & Appearance
Golden to medium brown heartwood, which darkens to a richer nut-brown over time with light exposure. Sapwood is typically pale yellow and clearly demarcated. The surface shows a high natural luster.
Hardness (Janka)
1,260 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable; highly resistant to rot and insect attack, often used as a more affordable substitute for Teak.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $10.00 - $15.00 per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern sample, likely less than 5 years old based on the clean surface, lack of heavy oxidation/patina, and industrial milling marks.
- Sustainability Status
- IUCN Red List category: Near Threatened. Not currently CITES listed, but populations are decreasing due to over-harvesting.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, boat building, outdoor decking, vats, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Tropical Africa (West and East Africa)
Workability
Generally works well with tools, though interlocked grain can cause tearout during surfacing. High mineral/calcium carbonate deposits can dull cutting edges quickly. Glues and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane or lacquer for interior use; Teak oil or spar varnish for exterior applications. Due to the open grain, a grain filler may be used if a glass-smooth finish is desired.
Notable Features
Often called African Teak. Known for its stability and weather resistance. Dust can be a sensitizer, causing skin or respiratory irritation. Does not have the oily feel of true Teak.
