Red Sanders (or Red Saunders)
Pterocarpus santalinus · Exotic/Tropical
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical
- Origin
- Southern India (endemic to the Eastern Ghats mountain range)
- Hardness
- 2,690 lbf (Extremely Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable, exceptionally resistant to decay, rot, and termite attacks due to dense natural oils
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Grain Pattern
Interlocked to irregular grain with fine texture, often displaying subtle wavy or mottled figure when turned
Color & Appearance
Rich deep red to brownish-red heartwood with darker streaks, aging to a darker purplish-brown or nearly black color with light exposure, possessing a medium natural luster
Hardness (Janka)
2,690 lbf (Extremely Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable, exceptionally resistant to decay, rot, and termite attacks due to dense natural oils
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $20 to $40+ per board foot, heavily regulated and restricted
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be several decades old based on the deep oxidized patina and finish wear
- Sustainability Status
- Endangered species, listed on CITES Appendix II and IUCN Red List as Endangered, heavily restricted international trade
Common Uses
Turning, decorative handles, fine furniture, carving, musical instrument parts, and traditional medicine/dyes
Geographic Origin
Southern India (endemic to the Eastern Ghats mountain range)
Workability
Difficult to work with both hand and machine tools due to extreme density and interlocking grain, causes rapid dulling of cutting edges, turns and polishes exceptionally well
Finish Recommendations
Takes a high natural polish due to density; friction polish, oils, or shellac work exceptionally well without requiring heavy surface films
Notable Features
Extremely dense, sinks in water, contains natural red pigments (santalin) historically used as a dye, highly valued for its aromatic and dense properties
