Likely Brazilian walnut (Ipe); alternatives include Santos mahogany or another dark tropical flooring species. — Handroanthus spp. (formerly Tabebuia spp.)

Likely Brazilian walnut (Ipe); alternatives include Santos mahogany or another dark tropical flooring species.

Handroanthus spp. (formerly Tabebuia spp.) · Hardwood; Exotic/Tropical

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood; Exotic/Tropical
Origin
Tropical Central and South America, especially Brazil, Bolivia, Paraguay, and Peru.
Hardness
About 3,500–3,700 lbf Janka; Extremely Hard.
Durability
Very Durable; highly resistant to decay, insects, and weathering.

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Grain Pattern

Mostly straight to interlocked, with strong ribboning and occasional irregular/wavy figure; narrow strip flooring appears mixed-sawn.

Color & Appearance

Heartwood ranges olive-brown to dark brown with subtle greenish or reddish tones; sapwood is much lighter and usually absent. It may darken and become more uniform with light exposure.

Hardness (Janka)

About 3,500–3,700 lbf Janka; Extremely Hard.

Durability & Decay Resistance

Very Durable; highly resistant to decay, insects, and weathering.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Approximately $10–$18 per board foot retail, varying substantially by grade, width, and locality.

AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.

Wood Age Estimate
The flooring appears commercially finished and moderately aged, likely 5–25 years; visible wear alone cannot establish installation date.

Common Uses

Exterior decking, premium flooring, stairs, heavy construction, furniture, turning, and specialty joinery.

Geographic Origin

Tropical Central and South America, especially Brazil, Bolivia, Paraguay, and Peru.

Workability

Very difficult to machine because of extreme density and silica; sharp carbide tooling is recommended. Predrilling is needed, and gluing can require freshly prepared surfaces.

Finish Recommendations

Use a penetrating exterior oil for exposed applications or a compatible polyurethane/lacquer indoors; clean and abrade thoroughly because dense, oily surfaces can impair adhesion.

Notable Features

Exceptional density, hardness, dimensional stability, and fine natural luster; the photograph shows pronounced color variation and attractive ribbon figure.

Learn more about Likely Brazilian walnut (Ipe); alternatives include Santos mahogany or another dark tropical flooring species. in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 6, 2026