Ipe (Brazilian Walnut)
Handroanthus spp. (formerly Tabebuia spp.) • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually interlocked or irregular, with a fine to medium texture; often displays a subtle cathedral or striped pattern due to wavy grain.
Color Description
Heartwood is typically reddish brown to yellowish olive-brown or blackish brown, often with lighter or darker streaks. Sapwood is yellowish-white or gray. Darkens significantly and becomes more uniform with age/UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
3,510 lbf (Extremely Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot, decay, and insect attack including termites and marine borers.
Common Uses
Outdoor decking, boardwalks, flooring, tool handles, heavy construction, boat building, and bridge components.
Geographic Origin
Central and South America (specifically Brazil and surrounding tropical regions).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Approximately $12.00 - $25.00 per board foot depending on thickness and quality.
Wood Age Estimate
The weathered, grayish patina suggests an exterior exposure of 2-5 years without UV-protective maintenance.
Sustainability Status
Appendix II of CITES; listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List due to overharvesting. FSC certification is available but rare.
Workability
Very difficult to work due to extreme density; high cutting resistance and rapid dulling of tool edges. Difficult to glue and prone to tearout during planing if interlocked.
Notable Features
Extremely heavy and dense (sinks in water); has a Class A fire rating (same as concrete/steel); contains Lapachol powder which can cause skin irritation.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oil finishes specifically designed for exotic hardwoods; high-solids stains. Film-forming finishes like polyurethane are not recommended due to natural oils.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High; identified by the characteristic tight, interlocked grain and the specific gray oxidation pattern unique to dense tropical hardwoods used in decking.