Purpleheart
Peltogyne spp. · Exotic/Tropical
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical
- Origin
- Central and South America (primarily the rainforests of Brazil, Guyana, and Suriname).
- Hardness
- 2,520 lbf (Extremely Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable. Excellent resistance to decay, rot, and dry wood termites.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to irregular or wavy grain with a medium to fine uniform texture.
Color & Appearance
Freshly cut wood is a dull brown, but upon exposure to UV light and air, it rapidly oxidizes to a vibrant, deep purple. With further aging and continued UV exposure, it darkens to a rich dark brown with a hint of purple.
Hardness (Janka)
2,520 lbf (Extremely Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable. Excellent resistance to decay, rot, and dry wood termites.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $8.00 to $15.00 per board foot.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively recent stock based on surface oxidation state and lack of deep surface patina, estimated under 5 years.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices or the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, though selective logging in tropical regions requires responsible sourcing.
Common Uses
Flooring, heavy-duty construction, fine furniture, turnings, boat building, and specialty items like cue sticks and guitar bodies.
Geographic Origin
Central and South America (primarily the rainforests of Brazil, Guyana, and Suriname).
Workability
Challenging to work due to its extreme hardness and density. It tends to dull cutting edges quickly. It can release a gummy resin when heated by dull tools, which can gum up blades and sandpaper. Glues reasonably well if surfaces are freshly prepared.
Finish Recommendations
Finishes well with oil-based finishes, lacquer, or polyurethane. A UV-inhibiting finish is recommended to help slow down the inevitable darkening of the vibrant purple color over time.
Notable Features
Distinctive bright purple color upon light exposure; extremely dense, heavy, and stiff; contains natural resins that can interfere with gluing if not cleaned properly.
