Iroko
Milicia excelsa • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Interlocked grain with a medium to coarse texture; features flat-sawn cathedral patterns visible in the center and some ribbon-stripe figure due to the interlocked fibers.
Color Description
Heartwood is a golden to medium brown; the sample shows yellow highlights typical of freshly surfaced or partially oxidized Iroko. It darkens significantly to a rich brown with light exposure and age.
Hardness Rating
1,260 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; high resistance to rot, termites, and fungal attack; often used as a lower-cost substitute for Teak in outdoor applications.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, boatbuilding, outdoor decking, and heavy structural timber.
Geographic Origin
Tropical Africa (East and West Africa)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $14.00 per board foot
Wood Age Estimate
Based on surface oxidation and the type of rough-planing chatter marks, this board appears to be secondary market stock or reclaimed timber approximately 5-15 years post-processing.
Sustainability Status
Listed as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List; not currently CITES regulated, but some regions restrict export. FSC certification is available but rare.
Workability
Generally easy to work, though interlocked grain can cause tearout during planing. Contains calcium carbonate deposits (stones) that can severely dull cutting edges. Glues and finishes well.
Notable Features
Lacks a distinctive scent when dry but can have a faint grassy odor when worked. Known for high silica/mineral content and potential for respiratory irritation (sensitizer).
Finish Recommendations
Responds excellently to teak oil or linseed oil to enhance the golden tones. Polyurethane or lacquer can be used, but surface oils should be wiped with solvent (acetone) before application.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High; the coarse texture, golden-brown hue with yellow mineral flecks, and interlocked cathedral grain are classic hallmarks of Milicia excelsa.