Sapele
Entandrophragma cylindricum · Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Origin
- Native to tropical Africa (West and Central Africa).
- Hardness
- 1,410 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable to Durable; heartwood is resistant to rot and termites, though it is susceptible to marine borers.
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Grain Pattern
Interlocked, often creating a narrow, uniform ribbon stripe figure when quarter-sawn. The texture is fine to medium and uniform with a natural luster.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is a golden to dark reddish brown. Color tends to darken with age. Sapwood is a pale yellow to white. Exhibits a distinct chatoyance (shimmer) when finished.
Hardness (Janka)
1,410 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable to Durable; heartwood is resistant to rot and termites, though it is susceptible to marine borers.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $6.00 to $10.00 per board foot depending on figure and width.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively recent/modern stock (less than 10 years). The light oxidation and clean surfacing suggest contemporary processing rather than reclaimed timber.
- Sustainability Status
- IUCN Red List: Vulnerable (due to a population reduction of over 20% in the last three generations). Not currently CITES listed, but monitoring is suggested.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, boat building, musical instruments (especially guitar backs and sides), veneer, and exterior joinery.
Geographic Origin
Native to tropical Africa (West and Central Africa).
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though the interlocked grain can cause tearout during planing or surfacing. It glues and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Takes all finishes well. Oil-based finishes enhance the reddish tones and chatoyance. Filling the pores may be necessary for a high-gloss glass-like finish.
Notable Features
Distinctive cedar-like scent when being worked. Known for its 'ribbon' figure and high density compared to African Mahogany.
