Purpleheart
Peltogyne purpurea · Exotic/Tropical
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical
- Origin
- Central and South America (specifically regions from Mexico down through Brazil)
- Hardness
- 2,520 lbf (Extremely Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable
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Grain Pattern
Straight to irregular grain with a medium texture
Color & Appearance
Freshly cut surfaces are a dull grayish/brown, but upon exposure to UV light, it rapidly oxidizes into a vibrant deep purple. With further age and exposure, it eventually darkens to a rich brownish color with a purple hue.
Hardness (Janka)
2,520 lbf (Extremely Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $10.00 to $18.00 per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively fresh to moderately oxidized, showing the initial stages of the signature purple color transformation
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on the CITES appendices or the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, though careful harvesting from managed forests is recommended
Common Uses
Fine furniture, flooring, heavy construction, boat building, turnings, and specialty items
Geographic Origin
Central and South America (specifically regions from Mexico down through Brazil)
Workability
Challenging due to extreme hardness; has a dulling effect on cutters and can secrete a gummy resin when heated by dull tools. Glues and finishes reasonably well.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane, lacquer, or a hardening oil finish work well. A UV-inhibiting finish can help slow down the eventual darkening of the purple hue.
Notable Features
Famous for its striking, natural purple color upon exposure to light. It is exceptionally dense, heavy, and weather-resistant.
