Padauk
Pterocarpus soyauxii · Exotic/Tropical
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical
- Origin
- Central and tropical West Africa
- Hardness
- 1,970 lbf (Very Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable. Excellent resistance to decay, rot, and termite attack.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to interlocked grain with a somewhat coarse texture and moderate natural luster.
Color & Appearance
Freshly cut heartwood is a vivid, bright red, purplish red, or pinkish red, which darkens significantly over time upon exposure to UV light to a deep brownish red or dark brown. Sapwood is a contrasting pale yellowish white.
Hardness (Janka)
1,970 lbf (Very Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable. Excellent resistance to decay, rot, and termite attack.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $12.00 to $20.00 per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be moderately aged (5-15 years), exhibiting a deepened brownish-red patina from initial bright red exposure.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on the CITES appendices, but evaluated on the IUCN Red List as vulnerable in certain local regions. Readily available through specialty exotic lumber dealers, often harvested sustainably.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, turned objects, cabinetry, musical instruments, flooring, and specialty veneer.
Geographic Origin
Central and tropical West Africa
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though interlocked grain can cause tearout during planing. Glues and finishes well, but natural oils can occasionally interfere with some adhesives.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts oil-based finishes, varnishes, and lacquers exceptionally well. Water-based finishes may pull out the red pigment or raise grain; sanding to a high grit enhances natural chatoyance.
Notable Features
Distinctive vibrant red color upon cutting; contains natural oils and water-soluble red pigments; stable dimensional properties once dried; pleasant, mild aromatic scent when worked.
