Iroko
Milicia excelsa • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Interlocked grain which can create an irregular or ribbon-like stripe pattern; texture is coarse with large open pores that are prominently visible on the face grain.
Color Description
Initial color is a yellow to light brown, darkening to a deep golden or chocolate brown with light exposure. The sample shows a medium-to-dark brown tone with notable dark streaks in the vessels.
Hardness Rating
1,260 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and insect attack, frequently used as a substitute for Teak.
Common Uses
Outdoor furniture, decking, boat building, flooring, cabinetry, piling and other marine work, and high-end joinery.
Geographic Origin
Tropical Africa (West, Central, and East Africa).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$12.00 - $18.00 per board foot depending on region and thickness.
Wood Age Estimate
Post-production age of 1-5 years based on the oxidation level and surface scratches, though the timber itself likely came from a mature tree 50+ years old.
Sustainability Status
IUCN Red List category: Near Threatened; not listed on CITES Appendices, but some countries have export restrictions.
Workability
Generally easy to work, though interlocked grain can cause tearout during planing. It contains calcium carbonate deposits (stone) which can dull cutting edges significantly.
Notable Features
Often called 'African Teak' despite no botanical relation; dust can be an irritant to skin and respiratory systems; very oily nature makes it weather-resistant.
Finish Recommendations
Teak oil or Danish oil to highlight the natural darkening; if using film-forming finishes like polyurethane, solvent-wipe surface first to remove natural oils.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of the specific golden-brown hue, very large and distinct open vessels (vessel lines), and coarse texture is characteristic of African Milicia species.