Iroko (African Teak)
Milicia excelsa • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Interlocked grain, often wavy, creating a distinct ribbon-like figure. Medium to coarse texture with large open pores visible in this chevron layup.
Color Description
Heartwood is typically a golden-yellow to medium brown, darkening with age and light exposure. High natural luster and significant chatoyance (light-reflecting properties). Sapwood is a lighter pale yellow.
Hardness Rating
1,260 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. High natural resistance to rot, termites, and wood-boring insects. Excellent weathering properties.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, outdoor decking, boat building, and high-end joinery. Often used as a substitute for Teak.
Geographic Origin
Tropical Africa (West and East Africa)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$12.00 to $18.00 per board foot
Wood Age Estimate
Modern processing; the sample appears to be within 5-10 years old based on the crispness of the machine-cut chamfered edges and relatively clean finish.
Sustainability Status
Listed on the IUCN Red List as Near Threatened; not currently CITES listed but subject to regulation in some regions.
Workability
Generally works well, though interlocked grain can cause tearout during surfacing. High mineral content can dull cutting edges quickly. Glues and finishes well.
Notable Features
Distinctive yellow color that oxidizes to brown. Known for being an 'all-purpose' tropical wood with high stability. Dust can be a sensitizer/irritant to some users.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils or clear polyurethane to highlight chatoyance. For outdoor use, UV-resistant finishes are needed to maintain color or it will silver over time.
Identification Confidence
High. The large pore structure, golden-to-brown color shift, and the classic 'ribbon' striped figure from interlocked grain are definitive characteristics of Iroko.