Purpleheart
Peltogyne spp. (widely P. paniculata and P. venosa) · Exotic/Tropical
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical
- Origin
- Central and South America, primarily rainforests of Brazil, Guyana, and Suriname.
- Hardness
- 2,520 lbf (Extremely Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable; highly resistant to decay and most insect attacks, though it can be susceptible to marine borers.
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Grain Pattern
Straight, with occasional wavy or interlocked patterns; medium to fine texture with a natural luster.
Color & Appearance
Freshly cut heartwood is grayish-purplish brown; upon exposure to UV light, it turns a vibrant eggplant purple, then eventually to a dark chocolate brown with a hint of purple. Sapwood is creamy white to lead-gray.
Hardness (Janka)
2,520 lbf (Extremely Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable; highly resistant to decay and most insect attacks, though it can be susceptible to marine borers.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $10.00 - $15.00 per board foot depending on width and figure.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Unknown; the surface shows significant oxidation and accumulated dust/residue, suggesting the sample has been milled and exposed to the environment for several years.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed in the CITES Appendices; categorized by the IUCN as species of Least Concern, though regional logging regulations apply.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boatbuilding, heavy construction, bridge building, tool handles, and accent decorative turnings.
Geographic Origin
Central and South America, primarily rainforests of Brazil, Guyana, and Suriname.
Workability
Difficult due to extreme hardness; can be very taxing on tool edges. Resinous wood can gum up blades and sandpaper. Tearout is common during planing of interlocked grain.
Finish Recommendations
UV-inhibiting finishes are highly recommended to preserve the purple color; film-forming finishes like lacquer or polyurethane work well over a dewaxed shellac sealer.
Notable Features
Emit a distinct, mild scent when worked. Known for the unique chemical transformation of color when exposed to light. High density results in significant weight.
