Purpleheart
Peltogyne spp. · Exotic/Tropical hardwood
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect- Type
- Exotic/Tropical hardwood
- Origin
- Tropical Central and South America, especially the Guianas and Amazon basin.
- Hardness
- 2,520 lbf; Extremely Hard.
- Durability
- Very Durable; heartwood is highly resistant to decay and moderately resistant to insects and weathering, though exposed color can fade or brown.
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Grain Pattern
Mostly straight to mildly interlocked grain, with fine, even texture; boards appear flat-sawn, without prominent figured grain.
Color & Appearance
Fresh heartwood is vivid violet-purple, often darkening toward deep purple-brown with age and light exposure; sapwood is pale and sharply distinct. The image shows purple heartwood with a matte, freshly milled surface.
Hardness (Janka)
2,520 lbf; Extremely Hard.
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable; heartwood is highly resistant to decay and moderately resistant to insects and weathering, though exposed color can fade or brown.
Value & Age
The listing shows $11 per board foot; typical retail varies substantially by region, thickness, and grade.
AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Not reliably estimable from the photo; the boards appear recently milled, with no clear patina or wear.
Common Uses
Decking, flooring, exterior construction, furniture, cabinetry, turning, tool handles, and decorative veneer.
Geographic Origin
Tropical Central and South America, especially the Guianas and Amazon basin.
Workability
Dense and hard; machine well with sharp carbide tooling, but may burn, dull edges, or tear out where grain interlocks. Pre-drilling is advisable; gluing and finishing benefit from clean, freshly prepared surfaces.
Finish Recommendations
For indoor work, use a compatible sealer followed by varnish or polyurethane; for outdoor color retention, use a UV-protective exterior finish and maintain it regularly.
Notable Features
Distinctive purple color, high density, and good strength; color may shift toward brown under UV exposure.
