WoodSwatch · The Wood Ledger
Andaman Padauk
Pterocarpus dalbergioides
Also known as: Andaman Redwood, Indian Padauk, Vermillion Wood
Technical Spec Sheet
2026-07-14
Reference grain swatch
- Janka Hardness
- 1,720 lbf (7,651 N)
- Avg. Dried Weight
- 770 kg/m³ (48 lb/ft³)
- Specific Gravity
- 0.75
- Type
- Hardwood
- Grain
- Straight to interlocked, sometimes wavy; ribbon figure on quartersawn surfaces
- Texture
- Medium to coarse, open-pored
- Durability
- Very durable; excellent natural resistance to decay and insects
- Region
- Asia
- Sustainability
- Restricted — CITES Appendix II (as Pterocarpus genus); sourcing requires documentation
Overview
Andaman Padauk is a striking Southeast Asian hardwood endemic to the Andaman Islands, valued for its vivid brick-red to golden heartwood and high natural durability. A member of the CITES-regulated Pterocarpus genus, it is closely related to African Padauk and shares many of its working characteristics, producing a bold visual impact in furniture and architectural millwork.
Diffuse-porous hardwood with medium to coarse texture and air-dried density of approximately 770 kg/m³. Janka hardness of 1,720 lbf. The heartwood is initially vivid red to golden-orange; UV exposure causes significant colour shift to a warm reddish-brown. Tangential shrinkage 5.5%, radial 3.5%.
Workshop Notes
Blunting Effect
Moderate — silica deposits can accelerate edge wear
Gluing
Good adhesion; oily surface may require solvent wipe before bonding
Finishing
Finishes well; UV-protective coatings recommended to preserve colour
Steam Bending
Moderate steam bending properties
Scent
Distinctive, faintly floral scent when worked fresh
Assessment
Strengths
- High natural durability
- Striking colour
- Good dimensional stability
- Strong and hard-wearing
Weaknesses
- CITES-regulated — documentation required
- Colour fades significantly under UV without UV-protective finish
- Can cause skin sensitisation
Common Uses
Furniture · Flooring · Decorative panelling · Turning · Musical instruments