Purpleheart
Peltogyne spp. · Exotic/Tropical
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical
- Origin
- Central and South America (ranging from Mexico down to southern Brazil).
- Hardness
- 2,520 lbf (Extremely Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable, with exceptional resistance to decay, rot, and dry-wood insects.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to irregular or interlocked grain with a medium to fine texture and good natural luster.
Color & Appearance
Freshly cut heartwood is a dull greyish/brown, but upon exposure to UV light, it rapidly oxidizes into a vibrant, deep purple color. With further aging and continued UV exposure, it darkens to a rich dark brown with a hint of purple.
Hardness (Janka)
2,520 lbf (Extremely Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable, with exceptional resistance to decay, rot, and dry-wood insects.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 8.00 to 15.00 USD per board foot.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively freshly cut or recently exposed board, indicated by the vibrant purple tone and lack of heavy dark brown oxidation.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices or the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, though selective harvesting practices apply.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, flooring, heavy construction, boat building, turnings, inlay, and specialty items.
Geographic Origin
Central and South America (ranging from Mexico down to southern Brazil).
Workability
Challenging due to extreme hardness. Tends to dull cutting edges quickly, and can secrete a gummy resin when heated by dull blades, but glues and finishes well if surfaces are wiped down.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane, lacquer, or penetrating oils. A UV-inhibiting finish is highly recommended to slow down the natural darkening process.
Notable Features
Distinctive vibrant purple color upon UV exposure, highly dense and stiff, contains natural resins that can interfere with gluing if not properly cleaned.
