Sapele
Entandrophragma cylindricum · Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Origin
- Tropical Africa (primarily West and Central Africa)
- Hardness
- 1,410 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable to Durable; heartwood is resistant to rot and termites, though susceptible to powder post beetles.
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Grain Pattern
Interlocked, producing a characteristic ribbon stripe figure when quartersawn; texture is fine to medium with a uniform grain.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is a golden to dark reddish brown. Color tends to darken with age. It displays a noticeable chatoyance and luster. Sapwood is pale yellow/white.
Hardness (Janka)
1,410 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable to Durable; heartwood is resistant to rot and termites, though susceptible to powder post beetles.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $6.00 – $10.00 per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively recent/modern manufacture; the surface shows minimal oxidation or patina, likely surfaced or finished within the last 5-10 years.
- Sustainability Status
- Listed on the IUCN Red List as Vulnerable due to population reduction; not currently CITES listed but often monitored by FSC.
Common Uses
Veneer, plywood, furniture, cabinetry, flooring, boatbuilding, musical instruments (especially guitar backs/sides), and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Tropical Africa (primarily West and Central Africa)
Workability
Generally easy to work with tools, but the interlocked grain can cause significant tearout during planing or surfacing. Glues and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Responds well to all finishes. To highlight the chatoyance, penetrating oils or clear lacquers are recommended. Grain filling may be required for a mirror-smooth finish.
Notable Features
Distinctive cedar-like scent when being worked; known for its ribbon-stripe figure; can cause skin irritation or respiratory issues in sensitive individuals.
