Lacewood / Leopardwood
Roupala montana (syn. R. brasiliensis) • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Quarter-sawn grain with characteristic large, flaky ray fleck figure (lacelike pattern). Grain is typically straight but can be interlocked; texture is coarse and uneven due to the differing density of the wood rays.
Color Description
Heartwood is a reddish-brown with silvery-colored rays. The sapwood is light brown or yellowish. It exhibits high luster and chatoyance within the ray flecks. Darkens slightly to a deeper reddish-brown with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,200 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable to Durable; generally resistant to decay and rot, though primarily used for indoor decorative applications. Fair resistance to insect attack.
Common Uses
Veneer, cabinetry, fine furniture, musical instruments (acoustic guitar backs and sides), turned objects, knife handles, and inlay/accent work.
Geographic Origin
Central and South America (principally Brazil).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$15.00 - $25.00 per board foot (pricing varies significantly by the intensity of the ray fleck figure).
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively recent/modern processing. The wood appears clean with sharp machine edges and lacks surface oxidation or patina typical of antique lumber.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; generally considered a sustainable exotic hardwood.
Workability
Fairly difficult to work. The rays are softer than the surrounding wood, which can cause 'tearout' during planing or jointing. Large rays can also become brittle and crumble. Glues and finishes well.
Notable Features
Distinctive large ray flecks resembling leopard spots or lace. It has no characteristic scent. Dust can be a mild irritant to the skin and respiratory system.
Finish Recommendations
Danish oil or polymerized tung oil to enhance the depth of the ray flecks. Film finishes like lacquer or polyurethane work well but may require grain filling for a glass-smooth surface.
Identification Confidence
High. The prominent, oversized ray flecks on a quarter-sawn face are characteristic of the Proteaceae family, specifically Lacewood (Roupala) or Leopardwood (Flindersia or Roupala depending on vendor labeling).