Purpleheart
Peltogyne spp.
Family: Fabaceae
Quick Facts
Wood Type
Hardwood
Native Range
South America, Central America
Avg. Dried Weight
56 lb/ft³
Janka Hardness
2,520 lbf
Decay Resistance
Very Durable
Typical Color
Purple
Stability
Medium
Outdoor Suitability
Good
Workability
Moderate
Availability
Commercially Available
CITES
Unlisted
IUCN
Least Concern
Did You Know?
- •Purpleheart is harder than 86% of the 137 species in our database.
Janka Hardness Scale
Very Hard
Overview
Professional Summary
Purpleheart (Peltogyne purpurea) is instantly recognizable for its vivid violet color — unique in the wood world. With a Janka hardness of 2,520 lbf and excellent durability, it's both a striking decorative wood and a robust structural material. The purple color intensifies after initial cutting then gradually darkens to deep brown-purple over years.
In Plain English
Purpleheart is the wood that looks like it can't be real — it turns bright vivid purple after being cut. It's incredibly hard and strong, making it great for accents, cutting boards, and anywhere you want a dramatic pop of color. The purple slowly darkens to a deep brown-purple over time.
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
Striking accent wood for furniture inlays, cutting boards, tool handles, flooring accents, and decorative turned objects.
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.
Color WILL darken significantly over years — design for this. Heat from machining activates resin. Dust can cause respiratory irritation.
Native Distribution
Find Substitutes
AI-powered alternative species matching
You Might Also Consider
Species with similar characteristics and uses
Look-Alike Species
Woods with a similar purple color that are easily confused with Purpleheart. Recorded differences are shown where data exists; confirm identification with end-grain examination.