Ipe (Brazilian Walnut)
Handroanthus spp. (formerly Tabebuia spp.) • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to interlocked and irregular; fine to medium texture with a visible 'oily' surface and surface checking (cracks) common in weathered specimens.
Color Description
Heartwood is typically reddish brown to yellowish olive brown or blackish brown. This weathered sample shows a classic 'silver-gray' patina due to UV exposure and oxidation, with dark streaks visible in the deep grain.
Hardness Rating
3,510 lbf (Extremely Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; highly resistant to rot, termites, and wood-boring insects. Naturally Class A fire-rated.
Common Uses
Decking, outdoor furniture, siding, boardwalks, marine construction, and heavy-duty flooring.
Geographic Origin
Central and South America (primarily Brazil)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$15.00 - $25.00 per board foot (varies by board width and length)
Wood Age Estimate
Estimated 5 to 10 years of outdoor exposure; the deep silvering and longitudinal surface checks indicate significant weathering without recent oil treatment.
Sustainability Status
Listed on CITES Appendix II (as of 2024); categorized as Vulnerable in some regions due to over-harvesting; FSC certification is available but less common.
Workability
Extremely difficult to work due to density; has a severe dulling effect on cutting edges. Pre-drilling is mandatory for fasteners. Glueing can be difficult due to natural oils.
Notable Features
Sinks in water; contains lapachol (a yellow powder that can cause skin irritation); very high natural oil content; highly resistant to scratching and denting.
Finish Recommendations
Typically left unfinished to weather to gray, or treated with specialized penetrating oils (e.g., Penofin or Ipe Oil) to maintain color. Film-forming finishes like polyurethane are prone to peeling.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High; the combination of very dense grain, specific longitudinal checking patterns, and the characteristic transition to a silver-grey patina is highly indicative of Ipe decking.