Ipe (Brazilian Walnut)
Handroanthus spp. (formerly Tabebuia spp.) · Exotic/Tropical
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical
- Origin
- Central and South America (principally Brazil, Bolivia, and Peru).
- Hardness
- 3,684 lbf (Extremely Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable. Exceptional resistance to rot, fungal decay, termites, and wood-boring insects; often rated for class 1 ground contact.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly interlocked grain with fine to medium texture; visible pale marginal parenchyma bands and narrow growth rings typical of tropical hardwoods.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood varies from olive brown to reddish brown and dark chocolate brown; features light yellow-greenish deposits (lapachol) in the pores. Tends to darken upon oxidation or age to a uniform dark greyish-brown when weathered.
Hardness (Janka)
3,684 lbf (Extremely Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable. Exceptional resistance to rot, fungal decay, termites, and wood-boring insects; often rated for class 1 ground contact.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $12.00 - $18.00 per board foot for premium deck board quality.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Matured lumber sample; shows signs of surface weathering, oxidation, and fine surface checking consistent with several years of outdoor exposure or stored lumber.
- Sustainability Status
- CITES Appendix II listed (effective November 2024 for Handroanthus spp.); subject to strict trade controls due to overexploitation; FSC-certified sourcing highly recommended.
Common Uses
Outdoor decking, boardwalks, heavy marine construction, docks, outdoor furniture, flooring, and architectural cladding.
Geographic Origin
Central and South America (principally Brazil, Bolivia, and Peru).
Workability
Difficult to work due to extreme density and blunting effect on cutting tools. Pre-drilling required for fasteners; glues with moderate difficulty due to high density and natural oils.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oil finishes with UV inhibitors formulated specifically for dense exotic hardwoods; avoid thick film-forming finishes like varnish which tend to peel.
Notable Features
Contains lapachol powder in wood pores which can cause skin irritation/sensitization; naturally fire-resistant (Class A fire rating); extremely heavy and dense (sinks in water).
