Iroko
Milicia excelsa • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Interlocked grain with a medium to coarse texture; features a natural ribbon-stripe figure common in quartersawn sections
Color Description
Heartwood starts as a golden-yellow to medium brown, darkening to a deeper brown over time. Sapwood is clearly demarcated and pale yellow. High natural luster and chatoyance.
Hardness Rating
1,260 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and insect attack, often used as a substitute for Teak in outdoor applications.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, boatbuilding, flooring, exterior millwork, and veneer.
Geographic Origin
Tropical Africa (West and East Africa)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $15.00 per board foot depending on region and grain quality.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled to slightly oxidized; the golden hue suggests it has not yet undergone the deep darkening resulting from long-term UV exposure.
Sustainability Status
IUCN Red List: Lower Risk/near threatened; not currently CITES listed but subject to harvest regulations in some African nations.
Workability
Generally good, though interlocked grain can cause tearout during surfacing. High silica content causes moderate dulling of cutters. Glues and finishes well.
Notable Features
Often called 'African Teak' due to similar properties; produces a significant amount of dust that can be a skin and respiratory irritant; essentially odorless.
Finish Recommendations
Responds well to oil-based finishes which enhance the depth of the grain; polyurethane or lacquer can be used once the wood's natural oils are accounted for.
Identification Confidence
Medium; the color, coarse texture, and characteristic 'yellowish' golden undertone seen in the image are highly indicative of Iroko, though some species of Mahogany or Meranti can appear similar in low lighting.