Purpleheart
Peltogyne spp.
Also known as: Amaranth, Pau Roxo, Purple Wood
Purpleheart is a striking tropical hardwood from Central and South America, famous for its vivid purple heartwood. Extremely hard and durable, it is used for flooring, turnery, inlays, and specialty items. The purple color gradually darkens to brown with exposure to light.
Botanical Profile
Peltogyne comprises several species of large trees native to tropical Central and South America, including P. purpurea, P. venosa, and others. Trees typically reach 30-50 meters. The wood develops its characteristic purple color upon exposure to air after cutting.
Physical Properties
Heartwood is purple to violet when freshly cut, darkening to brownish-purple with age and light exposure. Sapwood is pale purple. Density averages 880 kg/m³ with a Janka hardness of 2,520 lbf. Fine to medium texture with usually straight grain. Very low shrinkage.
Workshop Notes
Blunting Effect
High - very hard wood dulls tools quickly
Gluing Advice
Good with proper preparation
Finishing
Excellent - takes oil and finish well; UV can darken color
Steam Bending
Poor - very stiff
Historical Context
Purpleheart has been prized since colonial times for its unique color and durability. Used in fine furniture, flooring, and decorative inlays. The purple color comes from natural compounds that oxidize when the wood is cut.
Technical Specs
Purple to violet heartwood when freshly cut; ages to dark brownish-purple; pale purple sapwood
Varies by species - some Peltogyne species are threatened; check CITES and source