Sapele
Entandrophragma cylindricum · Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Origin
- Tropical Africa (West and Central Africa)
- Hardness
- 1,410 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable to Durable; heartwood is resistant to rot and termites, though it is susceptible to marine borers.
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Grain Pattern
Interlocked, producing a distinctive ribbon-stripe figure on quartersawn surfaces; fine to medium texture with a uniform grain appearance in this specific cut.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is a golden to dark reddish-brown. Sapwood is a pale yellow. Color tends to darken with age. Displays high natural luster and chatoyance (light-shifting) due to the interlocked grain.
Hardness (Janka)
1,410 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable to Durable; heartwood is resistant to rot and termites, though it is susceptible to marine borers.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $6.00 - $10.00 per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern lumber; likely kiln-dried and processed within the last 5-10 years based on the crisp edges and even oxidation.
- Sustainability Status
- Listed on the IUCN Red List as Vulnerable due to a population reduction of over 20% in the last three generations; not currently CITES listed but FSC certified sources are often available.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, boat building, musical instruments (guitars), veneer, and decorative trim.
Geographic Origin
Tropical Africa (West and Central Africa)
Workability
Generally easy to work with tools, though interlocked grain can cause tearout during planing or surfacing. Glues and finishes well. Large shrinkage during drying.
Finish Recommendations
Takes all finishes well; oil-based finishes beautifully highlight the natural chatoyance and depth of the reddish-brown tone.
Notable Features
Distinctive cedar-like scent when being worked. Known for the 'ribbon' grain effect and as a common, more sustainable alternative to Genuine Mahogany.
