African Padauk
Pterocarpus soyauxii
Genus: Pterocarpus · Family: Fabaceae
Quick Facts
Wood Type
Hardwood
Native Range
Africa
Avg. Dried Weight
47 lb/ft³
Janka Hardness
1,970 lbf
Decay Resistance
Very Durable
Typical Color
Red
Stability
Very High
Outdoor Suitability
Excellent
Workability
Moderate
Availability
Commercially Available
CITES
Unlisted
IUCN
Not Evaluated
Did You Know?
- •African Padauk is harder than 74% of the 137 species in our database.
- •African Padauk is one of the few species rated both "Very Durable" for decay resistance and "Excellent" for outdoor use — ideal for ground-contact and marine applications.
Janka Hardness Scale
Very Hard
Overview
Professional Summary
African Padauk (Pterocarpus soyauxii) is one of the most vibrant woods available, featuring brilliant orange-red heartwood that gradually matures to a rich reddish-brown. With a Janka hardness of 1,970 lbf, very high stability, and excellent decay resistance, it's a versatile species for both decorative and structural applications.
In Plain English
Padauk is the wood that looks like it's on fire — brilliant orange-red when freshly cut. It's hard, stable, and naturally rot-resistant. Over time the vivid orange mellows to a beautiful reddish-brown. Great for accent pieces, cutting boards, and outdoor projects.
Appearance
Technical Properties
Sources, Conditions & Safety
No documented references are attached to this profile yet. Its recorded values should not be treated as source-verified.
Wood dust & sensitivity
Species-specific safety information has not been documented here. Absence of a warning does not mean the wood is safe or non-allergenic.
Use dust extraction and appropriate protective equipment; consult occupational-safety guidance. This is not medical advice or food-contact approval.
Durability & Performance
Workability
Common Uses
Excellent for flooring, furniture accents, turned objects, cutting boards, and decorative inlays. Also suitable for outdoor applications due to natural durability.
Sustainability & Trade
Listings are reference information, not proof of legal sourcing or certification. Verify current trade rules and supplier documentation before buying; absence of a note does not mean unrestricted trade.
Vivid orange color WILL darken significantly over months/years. Sawdust produces vivid orange-red staining on skin, clothes, and adjacent materials. Use dust collection.
Native Distribution
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Look-Alike Species
Woods with a similar red color that are easily confused with African Padauk. Recorded differences are shown where data exists; confirm identification with end-grain examination.