Ipe (Brazilian Walnut)
Handroanthus spp. (formerly Tabebuia spp.) • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to interlocked, occasionally wavy. Fine to medium texture with a low natural luster.
Color Description
Heartwood is typically reddish brown, sometimes with greenish or yellowish hues; sapwood is yellowish-white. It darkens to a deep brown with age and light exposure, or weathers to a silver-grey if left untreated outdoors.
Hardness Rating
3,510 lbf (Extremely Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot, fungal decay, and insect attacks (including termites and powder post beetles).
Common Uses
Outdoor decking, boardwalks, flooring, park benches, bridge components, tool handles, and heavy construction.
Geographic Origin
Central and South America (principally Brazil).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$15.00 - $25.00 per board foot, though usually sold by linear foot for decking.
Wood Age Estimate
5-10 years based on sun-bleaching at the end-grain and moderate surface checking.
Sustainability Status
Appendix II of CITES (as of 2024); listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List due to overharvesting.
Workability
Difficult due to extreme density and hardness. Blunts cutting edges rapidly; requires carbide-tipped tooling and pre-drilling for fasteners.
Notable Features
Extremely heavy (sinks in water), fire-resistant (Class A rating similar to concrete), can cause skin and respiratory irritation during sanding.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oil finishes specifically designed for hardwoods (e.g., Ipe Oil). Surface films like lacquer or polyurethane tend to peel due to natural oils.
Identification Confidence
High; the end-grain appearance, extreme density indicated by the clean surface check, and characteristic olive-brown weathering are hallmarks of Ipe.