PADAUK, AFRICAN
Botanical Name: Pterocarpus soyauxii African padauk is extremely strong, durable and stable. Though less well-known than the rare Andaman padauk, it compares well, is much more available and is truly a handsome wood in its own right. In some parts of the world African padauk is commonly used for flooring, where it is considered of exceptional quality; padauk veneers are no less valued for their beauty.
Other Names: Padouk, barwood, camwood.
Source: West Africa.
Characteristics: Straight to interlocked grain; moderately coarse texture; deep red to purple-brown with red streaks.
Uses: Furniture, cabinetmaking, joinery, turning, handles and veneers.
Workability: Good; dulls cutters slightly.
Finishing: Accepts finishes very well.
Weight: 45 Ib./cu. ft.
Price: Moderate.
