Iroko (African Teak)
Milicia excelsa • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Interlocked grain with a medium to coarse texture; presents a fairly uniform face with slight ribbon-like striping characteristic of quarter-sawn tropical hardwoods.
Color Description
Initial yellow-golden color that darkens significantly to a rich, deep brown over time due to UV exposure; heartwood is distinct from lighter yellowish-white sapwood.
Hardness Rating
1,260 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot, termites, and fungal attack; often used as a more affordable substitute for Teak.
Common Uses
Outdoor furniture, boat building, decking, flooring, cabinetry, joinery, and heavy construction.
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
5-10 years post-harvest; the deep golden-brown patina suggests significant oxidation and UV exposure compared to freshly milled timber.
Sustainability Status
Listed as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List; not currently CITES listed but population is declining in some regions.
Workability
Generally easy to work with tools, though interlocked grain can cause tearout during planing; contains calcium carbonate deposits which can dull cutting edges.
Notable Features
Often lacks a distinct scent once dried; contains high oil content similar to Teak; can cause skin irritation or respiratory issues in some sensitive individuals.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes well; oil-based finishes enhance the natural chatoyance, though surface oils may require a solvent wipe prior to gluing or film-finishing.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High; the coarse texture, vessel distribution, and specific golden-brown oxidation color are highly diagnostic of Milicia species.