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Padauk
Padauk is an exotic hardwood prized for its vivid orange-red color, straight grain, and outstanding durability. Often used in fine woodworking projects, Padauk is known for its color retention, rot resistance, and striking appearance. Over time, it matures to a deeper, rich reddish-brown hue while maintaining its distinctive luster.
Whether you’re building furniture, crafting instruments, or turning custom pieces, Padauk offers exceptional workability and bold aesthetic impact.
Length: 6′-12′
Thickness:
4/4 $12.00/Bd ft
8/4 $13.00/Bd ft
- Common Name(s): Padauk
- Scientific Name: Pterocarpus soyauxii
- Distribution: Central and tropical West Africa
- Tree Size: 100-130 ft (30-40 m) tall, 2-4 ft (0.6-1.2 m) trunk diameter
- Average Dried Weight: 50 lbs/ft³ (800 kg/m³)
- Janka Hardness: 1,720 lbf (7,640 N)
- Crushing Strength: 8,960 lbf/in² (61.8 MPa)
Heartwood: Ranges from a pale pinkish-orange to a deep brownish-red.
Sapwood: Pale yellow, clearly demarcated from heartwood.
Grain: Generally straight, but can be interlocked.
Texture: Coarse, with a good natural luster.
Padauk is rated as very durable and resistant to insect attack.
Padauk machines and glues well with sharp tools. It sands to a smooth finish and accepts oils and sealers beautifully—enhancing its rich, natural color. Because it can darken with UV exposure, applying a UV-inhibiting finish is recommended to preserve its vibrant orange tone.
- Fine furniture
- Veneer
- Turned objects
- Musical instruments
- Decorative pieces
- Specialty wood items
Padauk is prized for its vibrant color and excellent durability. Over time, its color tends to darken to a deep reddish-brown. The wood’s fine texture and natural luster make it ideal for high-end woodworking projects. For additional tips on sustaining the beauty of your Padauk over time read this article. If you’re seeking a slightly darker red to brown tone hardwood lumber checkout our Bloodwood.
Note: Padauk is not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, but sustainable sourcing practices are recommended to ensure the preservation of this valuable wood.