Purpleheart Hardwood Technical Species Information

Detailed scientific and mechanical properties for Purpleheart Hardwood Lumber

Purpleheart

Description: The breathtaking coloring that has made Purpleheart world famous occurs when its freshly cut brown heartwood is exposed to the air, rapidly turning deep purple. Over time, prolonged exposure to light causes the heartwood to slowly transition from purple to a rich, dark brownish-purple shade. Purpleheart also possesses complimentary tones that can range from pale pink to whitish-grey. Purpleheart is very popular not only because of its amazing color, but also for its high level of durability. This wood serves as stunning decorative accent to any room and is sure to catch the admiring eye of any visitor.
More Info: Purpleheart is one of the most durable and stable species of hardwood available. Although striking in color, Purpleheart can be stained to appear more red-brown and less purple-pink. Fantastic for interior flooring, exterior decking and industrial uses.
Other Names: Peltogyne spp, Amaranth, Nazareno, Pau Roxo, Bois Violet, Barabou
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Janka Hardness: 1,860 pounds
Strength (MOR): 21,300 psi
Stiffness (MOE): 2,420 1000 psi
Density (KG/m3): 1,050
Color: Heartwood is purple and dark brown. Sapwood is white to yellow.
Photosensitivity: Moderate
Tangential Shrinkage: 6.1%
Radial Shrinkage: 3.2%
Family: Leguminosae
Tree Characteristics:
Geographic Area: Central America, Latin America, Oceania and S.E. Asia
Texture: Fine to medium
Grain: Straight to interlocked
Luster: Lustrous
Durability Rating: Rated as very durable and resistant to termites.
Drying Characteristics: Dries at slow speed with slight risk of surface checking and end splitting.
Working Characteristics: Rated as moderately difficult to work
Applications: Flooring, decking, decorative veneers, bridge joists, boat building, fine furniture, tables