Ipe (Brazilian Walnut)
Handroanthus spp. (formerly Tabebuia spp.) • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to interlocked and wavy grain; very fine texture with a slight oily feel. The surface shows characteristic vessel lines common in dense tropical hardwoods.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from reddish brown to yellowish olive-gray or blackish brown. Often exhibits lighter or darker streaks. Yellowish lapachol powder is often present in the pores. Highly resistant to fading, but will silver-gray over time if left untreated in sunlight.
Hardness Rating
3,510 lbf (Extremely Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. Excellent resistance to rot, termites, and wood-boring insects. Known for extreme longevity in outdoor settings (25+ years).
Common Uses
Outdoor decking, boardwalks, flooring, luxury furniture, tool handles, boat building, and heavy construction.
Geographic Origin
Central and South America (principally Brazil)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$15.00 - $25.00 per board foot (varies significantly by width and length)
Wood Age Estimate
The sample appears relatively modern but shows signs of weathering or oxidation, suggesting it has been exposed to the elements or stored for several years. The 'patina' looks like partially weathered exterior decking.
Sustainability Status
Listed in CITES Appendix II as of 2024. IUCN Red List status varies by specific species within the Handroanthus genus; widely scrutinizing due to over-logging.
Workability
Difficult to work due to extreme density and hardness. It has a high blunting effect on cutting edges; carbide tooling is required. Glues poorly due to natural oils. Pre-drilling is mandatory for fasteners.
Notable Features
Extremely heavy and sinks in water. Fire-rated similarly to concrete and steel (Class A). Contains lapachol, which can cause skin irritation or respiratory issues in some workers.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oil finishes specifically designed for exotic hardwoods (like Ipe Oil) are best. Film-forming finishes like polyurethane are prone to peeling due to the wood's density and oils. Can be left unfinished to age to a silver patina.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High. The visible pore structure, color range, and characteristic weathering patterns are consistent with Ipe decking, though Cumaru is a common similar-looking alternative.