Ipe (Brazilian Walnut)
Handroanthus spp. (formerly Tabebuia spp.) • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, wavy, or interlocked grain with a fine to medium uniform texture. The sample shows typical tight, parallel grain structure characteristic of high-density tropical timber.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from reddish brown to a deep olive/yellowish brown, often with dark streaks. Sapwood is a lighter white/yellow. It often darkens to a rich grayish-brown when weathered or a deep chocolate brown when oiled.
Hardness Rating
3,510 lbf (Extremely Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. Excellent resistance to rot, termites, and fungal decay; can last 25+ years in ground contact.
Common Uses
Outdoor decking, boardwalks, piers, tool handles, flooring, and heavy-duty exterior construction.
Geographic Origin
Central and South America (principally Brazil)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $18.00 per board foot depending on thickness and width (often sold by linear foot for decking).
Wood Age Estimate
The sample appears relatively fresh or recently surfaced, likely cut within the last 1-2 years based on the lack of silver-gray UV oxidation.
Sustainability Status
Appendix II of CITES (as of 2024); listed as Endangered/Vulnerable in some regions due to over-logging. FSC certification is highly recommended.
Workability
Difficult due to extreme density and hardness. It has a high blunting effect on cutters. Hardwood-specific carbide tooling is required. Glues poorly due to natural oils.
Notable Features
Contains Lapachol powder (yellow dust) which can be a skin/respiratory irritant. It is so dense that it sinks in water and has a Class A fire rating (similar to concrete/steel).
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oil finishes specifically designed for exotic hardwoods (like Ipe Oil). Common film finishes like lacquer or polyurethane will likely peel due to high oil content.
Identification Confidence
High. The distinctive olive-brown color, extremely tight/dense grain structure, and visible yellow deposits (Lapachol) in the pores are diagnostic for Ipe.