Find Your Perfect Wood Product
If you find a product you like, reach out to us for more details and assistance.
Purpleheart
Purpleheart is one of the most distinctive and durable exotic hardwoods in the world. Known for its deep, natural purple hue, this hardwood is prized by woodworkers for its intense coloration, strength, and longevity. Over time, it matures from a vibrant violet-purple to a rich brownish-purple with exposure to light and air, making it a favorite for decorative and structural applications alike.
Perfect for fine furniture, flooring, inlays, and turning projects, Purpleheart adds both bold color and reliable performance to any build.
Length: 4′-10′
Thickness:
4/4 $12.00/Bd ft
8/4 $13.00/Bd ft
- Common Name(s): Purpleheart, Amaranth
- Scientific Name: Peltogyne spp.
- Distribution: Central and South America (from Mexico down to southern Brazil)
- Tree Size: 100-170 ft (30-50 m) tall, 3-5 ft (1-1.5 m) trunk diameter
- Average Dried Weight: 56 lbs/ft³ (900 kg/m³)
- Janka Hardness: 2,520 lbf (11,200 N)
- Crushing Strength: 11,640 lbf/in² (80.3 MPa)
Heartwood: When freshly cut, the heartwood of Purpleheart is a dull grayish/purplish brown. Upon exposure, the wood becomes a deeper eggplant purple.
Sapwood: Narrow and pale yellow.
Grain: Usually straight, but can also be wavy or irregular.
Texture: Medium texture with a good natural luster.
Rated as very durable and resistant to insect attack.
Purpleheart is dense and can be challenging to work with dull tools, but it machines cleanly with sharp blades. It sands to a glassy finish and accepts oils and sealers well. To retain its color, a UV-resistant finish is recommended to slow the darkening process. Avoid overheating while cutting, as this can cause resin buildup and discoloration. For additional tips on sustaining the beauty of your Purple Heart over time read this article.
- Fine furniture
- Veneer
- Turned objects
- Specialty wood items
- Flooring
- Boatbuilding
Purpleheart is prized for its unique coloration, making it a popular choice for decorative applications. The wood’s density and hardness provide excellent durability, although it can be challenging to work with.