Sapele
Entandrophragma cylindricum • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Interlocked grain producing a characteristic ribbon stripe pattern; medium to fine texture with a uniform natural luster.
Color Description
Heartwood is a golden to dark reddish brown. Color darkens with age. Distinctive ribbon-like light and dark stripes visible on quarter-sawn surfaces.
Hardness Rating
1,410 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable to Durable; offering decent resistance to rot and insect attack, though heartwood is susceptible to some borers.
Common Uses
Veneer, plywood, furniture, cabinetry, flooring, boatbuilding, musical instruments (guitars), and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Native to tropical Africa (West and Central Africa).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 to $10.00 USD per board foot depending on figure and region.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled to recently seasoned (less than 1-2 years), evidenced by the sharp edges and lack of deep oxidation or UV-induced darkening.
Sustainability Status
Listed on the IUCN Red List as vulnerable due to a population reduction of over 20% in the last three generations; not CITES listed.
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, but the interlocked grain can cause significant tearout during planing or surfacing.
Notable Features
Distinguished by a cedar-like scent when being worked. Known for its acoustic properties and high concentration of natural oils compared to true mahoganies.
Finish Recommendations
Takes finishes well. A grain filler is recommended if a glass-smooth surface is desired; oils and lacquers beautifully highlight the ribbon figure.
Identification Confidence
High. The combination of reddish-brown color, diffuse-porous end grain, and characteristic interlocked ribbon grain is highly diagnostic for Sapele.