Purpleheart
Peltogyne spp. · Exotic/Tropical
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical
- Origin
- Central and South America, primarily the rainforests of the Amazon basin.
- Hardness
- 2,520 lbf (Extremely Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable, with exceptional resistance to rot, decay, and most insect attacks.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to irregular grain with a medium to fine uniform texture
Color & Appearance
Freshly cut wood is a dull grayish/brown, but upon exposure to UV light, it rapidly oxidizes to a vibrant, deep purple. With further age and exposure, it eventually darkens to a deep brown with a hint of purple.
Hardness (Janka)
2,520 lbf (Extremely Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable, with exceptional resistance to rot, decay, and most insect attacks.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 10.00 to 20.00 USD per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively recent, showing moderate UV-induced purple coloration typical of fresh to medium exposure (several months to a few years).
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices and generally not on the IUCN Red List, though selective logging in tropical regions presents sustainability considerations.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, flooring, heavy construction, boat building, turnings, and specialty items.
Geographic Origin
Central and South America, primarily the rainforests of the Amazon basin.
Workability
Difficult to work due to its extreme hardness and density. Tends to dull cutting edges quickly. Heating the wood can cause resin to bleed out, and it can be prone to burning during routing or sawing. Glues and finishes well if surfaces are properly prepared.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane, lacquer, or varnishes work well. A UV-inhibiting finish can help slow down the natural aging process from purple to brown.
Notable Features
Contains a chemical (purplehart resin) that reacts to UV light by turning bright purple. Can cause allergic reactions (respiratory irritation and skin sensitization) when worked.
