Afrormosia
Pericopsis elata · Exotic/Tropical
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical
- Origin
- West Africa (specifically countries like Ivory Coast, Ghana, Cameroon, and Nigeria)
- Hardness
- 1,560 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable, highly resistant to decay, rot, and marine borers
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly interlocked grain with a fine to medium uniform texture
Color & Appearance
Golden brown to medium brown with yellowish or reddish hues, darkening with age and light exposure; moderate natural luster
Hardness (Janka)
1,560 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable, highly resistant to decay, rot, and marine borers
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- Moderately high, typically ranging from $10 to $20 per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Sample appears to be modern, likely harvested and prepared within the last few decades
- Sustainability Status
- Listed on CITES Appendix II and evaluated as Endangered on the IUCN Red List due to overexploitation
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, joinery, boat building, flooring, and decorative veneer
Geographic Origin
West Africa (specifically countries like Ivory Coast, Ghana, Cameroon, and Nigeria)
Workability
Generally works well with both hand and machine tools, though interlocked grain can cause tearout during planing; glues and finishes well
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil, varnish, and lacquer finishes very well; wipe down with a solvent before gluing or finishing to remove surface oils
Notable Features
Often considered a viable substitute for teak due to its durability and appearance; contains natural oils that can occasionally inhibit gluing if not prepped properly