Sapele
Entandrophragma cylindricum • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Interlocked grain with a fine uniform texture. Often displays a ribbon-stripe pattern when quarter-sawn; this sample shows the characteristic speckled appearance and interlocked texture often found in flatsawn or transitional cuts.
Color Description
Heartwood is a golden to dark reddish brown. Color tends to darken with age and exposure. Sapwood is typically pale yellow or white. It possesses a distinct natural luster and chatoyancy (shimmer).
Hardness Rating
1,410 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable to Durable; medium resistance to rot and insect attack, though not ideally suited for direct ground contact.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, boat building, musical instruments (especially guitar backs and sides), veneer, and window frames.
Geographic Origin
Native to West and Central Africa (tropical regions).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 – $10.00 per board foot
Wood Age Estimate
Based on the uniform oxidation and depth of the reddish hue, this sample likely has 2-5 years of post-milling oxidation and finish aging.
Sustainability Status
Listed on the IUCN Red List as Vulnerable due to a population reduction of over 20% in the last three generations. Not currently CITES listed, but CITES Appendix II status has been debated.
Workability
Generally easy to work with machine tools, though the interlocked grain can cause significant tearout during planing. Glues and finishes well. It has a slight blunting effect on cutters.
Notable Features
Features a distinct, cedar-like scent when being worked. Known for its 'ribbon' figure and is considered a more affordable and sustainable alternative to Genuine Mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla).
Finish Recommendations
Takes all finishes well. High-gloss finishes or clear oils (like Tung or Teak oil) are recommended to emphasize the depth and chatoyancy of the grain.
Identification Confidence
High. The characteristic reddish-brown color, fine grain with dark pore speckling, and visible interlocking texture are quintessential physical markers of Sapele.