Leopardwood
Roupala montana • Exotic/Tropical
Grain Pattern
Quarter-sawn with prominent medullary rays creating a large, distinct 'leopard' or lacy flecked figure; grain is typically straight but texture is coarse.
Color Description
Heartwood is a medium to dark reddish-brown with grayish or light brown medullary rays. It has a high luster and typically darkens with age and exposure to UV light.
Hardness Rating
2,150 lbf (Very Hard)
Durability Rating
Durable to Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and decay, though occasionally susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
Veneer, cabinetry, fine furniture, musical instruments (guitars), knife handles, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Central and South America (principally Brazil)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$15.00 - $25.00 per board foot
Wood Age Estimate
Modern cut (less than 10 years), showing fresh surfacing marks and minimal oxidation or patina from long-term storage.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; generally considered sustainable but availability varies by region.
Workability
Difficult to work due to high density and the contrast between hard rays and softer background wood; prone to tearout during planing. Glues and finishes well.
Notable Features
Distinctive large ray fleck figure similar to Lacewood but typically darker and denser. No characteristic odor. Can cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
Finish Recommendations
Best suited for oils or clear film finishes like lacquer or polyurethane to enhance the chatoyancy and depth of the ray flecks.
Identification Confidence
High; the large-scale medullary ray flecks on the quartered face are characteristic of the Proteaceae family, specifically Roupala montana (Leopardwood).