Iroko
Milicia excelsa • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Interlocked and slightly irregular grain with a medium to coarse texture; features a ribbon-like figure when quarter-sawn.
Color Description
Heartwood is typically a yellow to golden brown, maturing to a darker nut-brown over time with light exposure. Sapwood is a clearly defined pale yellow.
Hardness Rating
1260 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and insect attack, commonly used as a teak substitute for outdoor applications.
Common Uses
Exterior joinery, boat building, flooring, furniture, cabinetry, decking, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Tropical Africa (spanning from West to East Africa).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 to $15.00 per board foot.
Wood Age Estimate
Post-industrial/Modern; sample shows fresh machine marks and minimal oxidation, likely harvested within the last 5-10 years.
Sustainability Status
Listed as Near Threatened by the IUCN; not currently CITES listed but regulated in some regions.
Workability
Generally works well, though interlocked grain can cause tearout during surfacing. Contains calcium carbonate deposits which can dull cutting edges.
Notable Features
Often referred to as African Teak; known for its high oil content and distinct odor when worked. Dust can be a sensitizer/irritant.
Finish Recommendations
Takes most finishes well, but oil-based or polyurethane finishes are recommended to highlight the darkening patina. Large pores may require filling for a smooth finish.
Identification Confidence
High; the characteristic yellow-brown hue, diffuse-porous structure with visible vessel lines, and the specific texture are hallmark indicators of Milicia excelsa.