Padauk
Pterocarpus soyauxii · Exotic/Tropical
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical
- Origin
- Central and Tropical West Africa
- Hardness
- 1,970 lbf (Very Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable with excellent resistance to rot, decay, and termites
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Grain Pattern
Straight to interlocked grain with a somewhat coarse texture and open pores
Color & Appearance
Freshly cut heartwood is a vivid, bright red or coral-orange, which darkens significantly over time with UV exposure to a deep reddish-brown or purple-brown; sapwood is a contrasting pale yellowish-white
Hardness (Janka)
1,970 lbf (Very Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable with excellent resistance to rot, decay, and termites
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 10.00 to 18.00 USD per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be freshly milled to moderately aged (months to a few years), as indicated by the remaining bright red undertones and visible hand-written label on the end grain
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices and generally not threatened on the IUCN Red List, though sustainable sourcing through reputable dealers is recommended
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, turning, musical instruments, flooring, decorative veneer, and inlay work
Geographic Origin
Central and Tropical West Africa
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though interlocked grain can cause tearout during planing; glues, turns, and finishes well
Finish Recommendations
Takes clear finishes very well; oil-based finishes or water-based polyurethanes work best to preserve or enhance the natural color, though UV-inhibiting finishes help slow the natural darkening process
Notable Features
Striking natural vibrant red color that darkens with light, faint aromatic scent when freshly cut, and good dimensional stability
