Iroko
Milicia excelsa, Milicia regia · Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Origin
- Tropical Africa (from West to East Africa)
- Hardness
- 1,260 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and insect attack, often used as a substitute for Teak.
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Grain Pattern
Interlocked grain which produces a distinct ribbon figure on quartersawn surfaces; texture is coarse with large open pores that appear as dark vessels.
Color & Appearance
Yellow to golden brown, typically darkening to a deep copper-brown over time with UV exposure. Sapwood is a pale yellow-white and clearly demarcated from heartwood.
Hardness (Janka)
1,260 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and insect attack, often used as a substitute for Teak.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $10.00 - $15.00 per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- The board appears to be relatively fresh-cut or newly surfaced stock, approximately 1-5 years old since harvest, showing minimal oxidation.
- Sustainability Status
- Listed on the IUCN Red List as Near Threatened; not currently CITES listed but population is declining due to over-exploitation.
Common Uses
Boat building, outdoor furniture, flooring, cabinetry, veneer, and general construction where durability is required.
Geographic Origin
Tropical Africa (from West to East Africa)
Workability
Generally easy to work with tools, though interlocked grain can cause tear-out during planing. Contains calcium carbonate deposits (stone-like inclusions) that can dull cutters rapidly.
Finish Recommendations
Takes finishes well; however, high natural oil content may require wiping with a solvent (like acetone) before gluing or applying polyurethane. Penetrating oils are recommended to maintain color.
Notable Features
Often referred to as African Teak; it lacks a distinctive odor when seasoned but the dust can be a potent respiratory irritant/sensitizer.
