Purpleheart
Peltogyne spp. (P. paniculata, P. porphyrocardia) • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight grain, can be wavy or interlocked; texture is medium to fine with a natural luster. This sample shows flat-sawn grain with prominent vessel streaks.
Color Description
Heartwood is a dull greyish-brown when freshly cut, turning a vibrant eggplant purple upon exposure to UV light. Over time, it will age to a dark brown with decorative purplish hues.
Hardness Rating
2,520 lbf (Extremely Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; highly resistant to rot, decay, and most insect attacks, though it can be susceptible to marine borers.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boatbuilding, heavy construction, specialty wood items, turning, and pool cues.
Geographic Origin
Central and South America (predominantly the Amazon Basin in Brazil, Guyana, and Suriname).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 to $20.00 per board foot depending on width and figure.
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively modern processing; the vibrant purple suggests it has been exposed to light within the last 1-5 years or has been recently sanded/refinished.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices; listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, but habitat loss remains a localized concern. FSC certification is available.
Workability
Difficult due to extreme hardness. Will exude a gummy resin when heated by high-speed tools (causing burn marks). Dulles cutters quickly; glues and finishes well.
Notable Features
Distinctive purple color; very heavy and dense; emits a mild, slightly unpleasant scent when being worked.
Finish Recommendations
Film-building finishes with UV inhibitors (like certain polyurethanes or lacquers) are recommended to slow the color shift from purple to brown. Avoid solvent-based waxes as they can dull the color.
Identification Confidence
High; the unique deep purple hue combined with the open-pored vessel structure and high density is diagnostic for Peltogyne species.