Padauk

Pterocarpus soyauxii

Color
Heartwood is vivid reddish orange when freshly cut, darkening to reddish -or purple-brown or black over time. Sapwood is cream-colored. Very uniform in color.

Grain
Straight to interlocked; coarse texture.

Variations
Slight variation in color.

Finishing
Because of the oil in the wood, oil-modified finishes may require long dry times. Waterborne finishes are often recommended. Has a tendency to bleed. Conversion varnishes also have been know to work well.

Comments
Dermatological and respiratory allergic potential.

Origin
Africa

Availability
Moderately available

Source: National Wood Flooring Association