Purpleheart
Peltogyne spp. • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight, but often wavy or interlocked with a medium to fine texture and naturally high luster.
Color Description
Heartwood is a dull grayish/purplish brown when freshly cut; upon exposure to UV light, it turns a vibrant eggplant purple. With age and further UV exposure, it eventually becomes a dark chocolate brown with a hint of purple.
Hardness Rating
2,520 lbf (Extremely Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; rated as very resistant to decay and most insect attacks, though it can be susceptible to marine borers.
Common Uses
Inlays, flooring, furniture, boatbuilding, heavy construction, specialty wood items, and tool handles.
Geographic Origin
Central and South America (predominantly Brazil, Guyana, and Suriname).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $18.00 per board foot depending on width and figure.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled/sanded (less than 1 year); visible vibrant purple indicates recent exposure to oxygen and light without long-term UV degradation.
Sustainability Status
Most species are not CITES listed; however, some species are on the IUCN Red List as Near Threatened or Vulnerable. FSC-certified options are often available.
Workability
Challenging; can be difficult to work with hand tools. It secretes a gummy resin when heated by high-speed tools (like saws or routers) which can clog blades. Tearout is common on interlocked grain.
Notable Features
Distinctive purple color; very dense and heavy; can emit a mild, unpleasant odor when being worked.
Finish Recommendations
Film-building finishes with UV inhibitors (like certain polyurethanes or lacquers) are highly recommended to preserve the purple color as long as possible.
Identification Confidence
High; the unique vibrant purple hue combined with the coarse pore structure and visible interlocking grain is definitive for the Peltogyne genus.