Padauk

Specs

Common Names

African Padauk, Vermillion

Scientific Name

Pterocarpus soyauxii

Origin

Central and tropical west Africa

Appearance

Heartwood color can vary, ranging from a pale pinkish orange to a deep brownish red. Most pieces tend to start reddish orange when freshly cut, darkening substantially over time to a reddish/purplish brown (some lighter pieces age to a grayish brown). See the article Preventing Color Changes in Exotic Woods for more information. Grain is usually straight, but can sometimes be interlocked. With a coarse, open texture and good natural luster.

Avg. Dried Weight

Janka Hardness

1970 lbf

Modulus of Rupture

Elastic Modulus

Crushing Strength

Shrinkage

Durability

Workability

Overall Padauk is easy to work; tearout may also occur during planing on quartersawn or interlocked grain. Padauk turns, glues, and finishes well.