Sapele
Entandrophragma cylindricum · Hardwood / Exotic
- Type
- Hardwood / Exotic
- Origin
- Tropical Africa (West and Central Africa)
- Hardness
- 1,410 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable to Durable; generally resistant to rot and termites, though susceptible to marine borers.
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Grain Pattern
Primarily interlocked, producing a distinctive ribbon-stripe figure when quarter-sawn. Also features a fine, uniform texture with consistent pores.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is a golden to dark reddish-brown. It shows a noticeable luster and chatoyance; color tends to darken significantly with age and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,410 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable to Durable; generally resistant to rot and termites, though susceptible to marine borers.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $6.00 - $10.00 per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern lumber; appears freshly surfaced or recently milled with minimal oxidation or wear.
- Sustainability Status
- IUCN Red List: Vulnerable (declined over 20% in the last three generations); not currently CITES listed, but widely available with FSC certification.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, boat building, musical instruments (especially guitar backs and sides), veneer, and exterior trim.
Geographic Origin
Tropical Africa (West and Central Africa)
Workability
Generally easy to work, but the interlocked grain can cause significant tearout during planing or surfacing. Glues and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Takes all finishes well; oil-based finishes beautifully highlight the grain's chatoyance. Pore filling is recommended for a glass-smooth surface.
Notable Features
Distinctive cedar-like scent when being worked. Known for its 'ribbon stripe' visual effect and high density compared to African Mahogany.
