Ipe (Brazilian Walnut)
Handroanthus spp. (formerly Tabebuia spp.) • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Fine to medium texture with grain that is straight to very interlocked; shows a subtle ribbon-like figure in some sections with very small, yellowish lapachol deposits visible in the pores.
Color Description
Heartwood is a reddish-brown to grayish-olive brown, often with lighter yellow-olive or dark brown streaks. It has a low to moderate natural luster and darkens significantly with age and light exposure to a deep, dark brown.
Hardness Rating
3,510 lbf (Extremely Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; exceptional resistance to rot, decay, and insect attack (termites). Often rated for 25+ years in ground contact.
Common Uses
Exterior decking, boardwalks, heavy maritime construction, tool handles, flooring, and outdoor furniture.
Geographic Origin
Central and South America (primarily Brazil).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $18.00 per board foot depending on thickness and quality.
Wood Age Estimate
Based on the oxidation level and the presence of surface dust, the lumber appears to be 2-5 years post-processing, likely stored in an indoor or sheltered environment.
Sustainability Status
Listed in CITES Appendix II as of late 2024; listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List due to overharvesting. FSC certification is available and recommended.
Workability
Extremely difficult to work due to high density and interlocked grain. Rapidly dulls cutting edges; requires carbide tooling. Glues with difficulty due to natural oils. Pre-drilling is mandatory.
Notable Features
Extremely heavy and dense (sinks in water); has a faint, characteristic spicy scent when worked. Dust contains lapachol, which can cause skin and respiratory irritation.
Finish Recommendations
Best left unfinished for outdoor use (will turn silver-gray) or maintained with a penetrating oil specifically formulated for hardwoods (like Penofin or Ipe Oil). Film-forming finishes like polyurethane are prone to peeling on this oily wood.
Identification Confidence
High; the distinct reddish-brown color, extremely tight and somewhat interlocked grain, visible yellowish deposits in the pores, and the sheer density/thickness shown in the cut are characteristic of Ipe.