Ipe (Brazilian Walnut)
Handroanthus spp. (formerly Tabebuia spp.) · Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Origin
- Central and South America (primarily Brazil)
- Hardness
- 3,510 lbf (Extremely Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable. Exceptional resistance to rot, decay, and marine borers. It is also highly resistant to termites and other wood-boring insects.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to interlocked grain with a fine to medium texture. Visible ribbon stripes and a somewhat oily appearance are common in flat-sawn sections.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is typically reddish-brown to a darker olive-brown, sometimes with blackish streaks. Sapwood is yellowish-white. It darkens significantly with age and light exposure, often turning a uniform dark brown or silvery-gray if left untreated outdoors.
Hardness (Janka)
3,510 lbf (Extremely Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable. Exceptional resistance to rot, decay, and marine borers. It is also highly resistant to termites and other wood-boring insects.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $10.00 - $20.00 per board foot depending on region and dimensions.
- Wood Age Estimate
- The sample appears to be modern dimensional lumber with moderate surface oxidation, suggesting a post-harvest age of 1-5 years.
- Sustainability Status
- CITES Appendix II listed; IUCN status varies by specific species within the group. FSC certified stock is available but often comes at a premium due to high demand and conservation concerns.
Common Uses
Outdoor decking, boardwalks, exterior trim, flooring, boat building, tool handles, and heavy construction.
Geographic Origin
Central and South America (primarily Brazil)
Workability
Difficult to work due to extreme density and high silica content, which rapidly dulls cutting edges. Gluing can be challenging due to natural oils. Pre-drilling is mandatory for fasteners.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils specifically formulated for tropical hardwoods (like Ipe Oil) are best. It does not accept film-forming finishes like polyurethane well due to natural oils and movement.
Notable Features
Extremely dense and heavy (sinks in water). It has a Class A fire rating (same as steel and concrete). The dust can be a skin and respiratory irritant.
