Iroko
Milicia excelsa • Exotic/Tropical
Grain Pattern
Interlocked grain with a medium to coarse texture; produces a ribbon-stripe figure when quarter-sawn. The visible face shows a slightly irregular, fibrous texture with open pores typical of the species.
Color Description
Heartwood is typically a yellow to golden brown, maturing to a darker honey brown over time. Sapwood is a distinct pale yellow. The sample shows significant oxidation to a darker reddish-brown tone common in weathered exterior pieces.
Hardness Rating
1,260 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and insect attack, frequently used as a substitute for Teak in exterior applications.
Common Uses
Outdoor furniture, boat building, flooring, cabinetry, turnery, and heavy construction.
Geographic Origin
Tropical Africa (from Ivory Coast to Ethiopia and south to Angola and Mozambique).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Approximately $10.00 - $15.00 per board foot depending on thickness and width.
Wood Age Estimate
The sample appears to be seasoned lumber with visible surface oxidation and rough-cut ends, likely harvested within the last 5-10 years based on the patina and lack of deep checking.
Sustainability Status
Listed on the IUCN Red List as Near Threatened; not currently CITES listed but subject to export restrictions in some African nations. FSC certification is available but limited.
Workability
Generally easy to work, though interlocked grain can cause tearout during planing. It contains calcium carbonate deposits which can dull cutting edges rapidly. Glues and finishes well.
Notable Features
Often referred to as African Teak. It lacks the oily feel of true teak but possesses high tannin content. Dust can be a sensitizer causing respiratory irritation or dermatitis in some users.
Finish Recommendations
Teak oil or tung oil finishes are best for maintaining color. For exterior use, high-solids UV-resistant clear coats or spar varnish are recommended. Avoid water-based finishes without a sealer as tannins may bleed.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High; the coarse texture, golden-brown hue with reddish oxidation, and the specific open-vessel structure on the end grain are highly characteristic of Milicia excelsa.