Padauk (African Padauk)
Pterocarpus soyauxii · Exotic/Tropical
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical
- Origin
- Central and tropical West Africa
- Hardness
- 1,970 lbf (Very Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable, with exceptional resistance to decay, rot, and termite attack
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly interlocked grain with a coarse, open texture and moderate natural luster
Color & Appearance
Vibrant reddish-orange to deep purplish-brown heartwood, which darkens significantly to a rich brown with red/purple hues upon prolonged exposure to light; pale contrasting sapwood
Hardness (Janka)
1,970 lbf (Very Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable, with exceptional resistance to decay, rot, and termite attack
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 8.00 to 15.00 USD per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated between 5 to 20 years based on surface oxidation and moderate darkening from initial vibrant red
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices or the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, though harvested responsibly through regional forestry regulations
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, turning, musical instruments, decorative veneer, tool handles, and flooring
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 oil and lacquer finishes exceptionally well; sealing with a dewaxed shellac or barrier coat can help mitigate the bleeding of natural red pigments into water-based finishes
Notable Features
Striking natural red coloration, moderate natural oils, stable dimensional movement once dry, and a faint, pleasant aromatic scent when freshly cut
