Leopardwood (focusing on the outer textured pieces)
Roupana brasiliensis · Exotic/Tropical
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical
- Origin
- Central and South America, particularly the Amazon basin
- Hardness
- 2,150 lbf (Very Hard)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable to Durable, with good resistance to decay but susceptible to insect attack
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Grain Pattern
Prominent flecked and speckled figure resembling leopard spots, quarter-sawn face showing large ray flecks
Color & Appearance
Reddish brown to pinkish brown with lighter grayish or pinkish undertones, featuring distinct darker brown flecks from prominent medullary rays
Hardness (Janka)
2,150 lbf (Very Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable to Durable, with good resistance to decay but susceptible to insect attack
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 12.00 to 20.00 USD per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern lumber, freshly milled or recently dressed stock
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices, generally considered of least concern by IUCN, though regional availability varies
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, inlay, musical instruments, turned objects, and specialty woodworking
Geographic Origin
Central and South America, particularly the Amazon basin
Workability
Can be challenging due to high hardness and interlocked grain causing tearout on quarter-sawn surfaces; pre-boring is recommended for nailing and screwing
Finish Recommendations
Takes a fine polish, and finishes well with oils, lacquers, or varnishes after proper sanding to eliminate tearout
Notable Features
Extremely prominent medullary rays that create a striking lace-like or leopard-spot figure when quarter-sawn
