Padauk (African)
Pterocarpus soyauxii • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to interlocked grain with a coarse texture. Common ribbon-like figure when quarter-sawn; some boards exhibit slight waviness or ripple patterns as seen in the fine transverse cross-hatching in this sample.
Color Description
Heartwood is a vivid reddish-orange when freshly cut, deepening to a dark reddish-brown or purple-brown over time with exposure to UV light. Sapwood is pale yellow and clearly demarcated. It has a high natural luster.
Hardness Rating
1,725 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot, decay, and termites. It is often used in marine and exterior applications due to its natural oils and high density.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, veneer, musical instruments (drums and guitar parts), turned objects, tool handles, and flooring.
Geographic Origin
Central and Tropical West Africa (Nigeria, Cameroon, Gabon, Congo)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Approximately $12.00 - $18.00 per board foot depending on width and region.
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively recent; likely less than 5 years since milling, as it still retains a vibrant reddish hue which would eventually fade to deep brown if it were vintage or reclaimed.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices; IUCN Red List classifies it as a species of least concern. Generally available with FSC certification.
Workability
Easy to work with hand and machine tools, though interlocked grain can cause tearout during planing. Glues and finishes well, but the natural oils and sawdust can be a skin/respiratory irritant.
Notable Features
Distinctive faintly aromatic scent when worked. The dust is very fine and bright orange, capable of staining surrounding surfaces and clothing. It is exceptionally stable once dried.
Finish Recommendations
A UV-inhibiting clear coat (lacquer or polyurethane) is highly recommended to delay the color change. Penetrating oils bring out the depth but may accelerate darkening.
Identification Confidence
High; the intense reddish-orange hue, coarse open pores, and specific cross-hatching texture are diagnostic characteristics of African Padauk.