Padauk (African Padauk)
Pterocarpus soyauxii · Exotic/Tropical
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical
- Origin
- Central and tropical West Africa
- Hardness
- 1,970 lbf (Very Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable. Excellent resistance to decay, rot, and termite attack.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Straight to interlocked grain with a somewhat coarse texture and moderate natural luster.
Color & Appearance
Vivid red to reddish-orange or brownish-red heartwood which tends to darken significantly to a deeper purplish-brown or dark brown over time upon exposure to light. The sapwood is a contrasting pale whitish or yellowish color.
Hardness (Janka)
1,970 lbf (Very Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable. Excellent resistance to decay, rot, and termite attack.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 10 to 20 USD per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be several years old based on the darkened, oxidized brownish-red surface patina.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on the CITES appendices, but evaluated as vulnerable or of conservation concern on the IUCN Red List due to regional over-harvesting.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, turned objects, cabinetry, musical instruments, flooring, and decorative veneer.
Geographic Origin
Central and tropical West Africa
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though interlocked grain can sometimes cause tearout during planing. Glues, turns, and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Takes a fine polish and finishes well with oils, lacquers, or varnishes. Pre-finishing sealers help prevent the natural red pigments from bleeding into lighter surrounding areas.
Notable Features
Known for its striking vibrant red color when freshly cut, high natural stability, and pleasant aromatic scent when being worked.
