Iroko (African Teak)
Milicia excelsa • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Interlocked grain with a medium to coarse texture, exhibiting a fairly distinct ribbon stripe pattern on quartersawn surfaces and open pores typical of the Moraceae family.
Color Description
Heartwood starts as a yellow to golden brown but quickly darkens to a deep chocolate brown over time with light exposure. Sapwood is a pale yellow. It possesses a moderate natural luster and some chatoyance.
Hardness Rating
1,260 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. High resistance to rot and insect attack, often used as a substitute for Teak in maritime environments.
Common Uses
Boat building, outdoor furniture, flooring, cabinetry, heavy construction, and veneer.
Geographic Origin
Tropical Africa (from Ivory Coast to Ethiopia and south to Angola and Mozambique).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $15.00 per board foot depending on thickness and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively recent mill stock, estimated 1-5 years post-harvest based on the crisp edges and surface oxidation levels visible on the right plank.
Sustainability Status
Listed as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List; some regions require FSC certification for sustainable export.
Workability
Generally easy to work, though interlocked grain can cause tearout during planing. Contains calcium carbonate deposits which can dull cutting edges quickly.
Notable Features
Often referred to as African Teak due to its similar appearance and durability, though it is unrelated. Dust can be a sensitizer/irritant to eyes and skin.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes well, but if used outdoors, periodic application of teak oil helps maintain color; otherwise, it will weather to a silver-grey.
Identification Confidence
High. The distinctive large vessel pores, golden-brown hue on the fresh surface versus the darker oxidation on the left piece, and the ribbon-like interlocked grain are quintessential indicators of Iroko.