Ipe (Brazilian Walnut)
Handroanthus spp. (formerly Tabebuia spp.) • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Principally straight to interlocked or wavy. The texture is fine to medium, and the grain often appears very dense and tight, characteristic of high-density tropical decking.
Color Description
Heartwood is typically reddish brown to yellowish olive-brown or blackish brown, often with lighter or darker streaks. When weathered (as shown), it turns a silvery-gray patina due to UV exposure. Sapwood is a lighter yellowish white.
Hardness Rating
3,510 lbf (Extremely Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. Exceptional resistance to rot, decay, and marine borer attacks; provides excellent insect resistance including termites.
Common Uses
Outdoor decking, boardwalks, docks, exterior siding, heavy-duty construction, tool handles, and bridges.
Geographic Origin
Tropical South and Central America (primarily Brazil).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$15.00 - $25.00 per board foot / $4.50 - $6.50 per linear foot for standard deck boards.
Wood Age Estimate
10 to 20 years. The advanced graying, lichen growth on edges, and surface checking suggest significant long-term exposure to the elements.
Sustainability Status
Listed in CITES Appendix II (as of November 2024); classified as Endangered on the IUCN Red List; FSC certification is highly recommended to ensure legal logging.
Workability
Directly difficult to work due to extreme density and hardness. It has a high blunting effect on cutters; carbide tooling is required. Gluing can be difficult because of natural oils; pre-drilling for screws is mandatory.
Notable Features
Highly fire-resistant (Class A rating, similar to concrete and steel); very heavy and sinks in water; produces fine yellow dust (lapachol) during sanding that can cause skin irritation.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oil finishes specifically designed for exotic hardwoods (e.g., Ipe Oil or Messmer’s UV Plus) are recommended. Film-forming finishes like polyurethane are prone to peeling on this dense wood.
Identification Confidence
High. The thin board profile, distinct silvery-gray weathering pattern, resistance to deep rot despite lichen growth, and visible tight grain structure are classic indicators of weathered Ipe decking.