Iroko (African Teak)
Milicia excelsa · Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Origin
- Tropical Africa (West and Central Africa)
- Hardness
- 1,260 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable; highly resistant to rot, decay, insect attack, and marine borers.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Interlocked grain with a coarse, even texture, showing distinct ribbon-like striping from Quarter-sawn cut angles.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is a rich golden to dark yellow-brown, darkening to a deeper brown upon exposure to light; sapwood is pale yellow.
Hardness (Janka)
1,260 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable; highly resistant to rot, decay, insect attack, and marine borers.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $12.00 - $18.00 per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern processing/cut strip, likely 1-10 years old based on fresh rough-sawn edges.
- Sustainability Status
- IUCN Red List status: Near Threatened; CITES Appendix II listed for some specific exports.
Common Uses
Boat building, outdoor furniture, decking, flooring, cabinetry, turned objects, and exterior joinery.
Geographic Origin
Tropical Africa (West and Central Africa)
Workability
Generally works well, though interlocked grain can cause tearout during planing; blunts cutters due to occasional calcium carbonate deposits.
Finish Recommendations
Wipe with acetone before gluing/finishing to remove surface oils; accepts oil finishes, polyurethane, lacquers, and marine-grade varnish exceptionally well.
Notable Features
Distinct golden-brown color, oily surface feel, high weather resistance, dust can cause respiratory or skin allergic reactions.
