Purpleheart Wood Information

PURPLEHEART FACTS

Purpleheart is not just a hardwood — it's a hard wood to miss! Often boasting a vibrant, deep-purple coloration, it's truly one of nature's wonders.

It's small wonder, though, that Purpleheart is immensely popular among turners and carvers. And because the wood is also available in larger sizes, including lumber, it is often used in cabinetry and fine furniture making, and occasionally even for flooring.

Although the heartwood is a dullish brown when freshly cut, it changes fairly rapidly to a vivid purple. (Unfortunately, however, this amazing color doesn't last forever, but more about that later.)

Purpleheart Chess Set by Jeff S. of Louisiana
(other wood is Yellowheart)

A Peltogyne paniculata Tree

"Purpleheart" is the trade name for about 20 different species of wood in the genus Peltogyne. Exotic Wood Group's Purpleheart belongs to the species paniculata. Purpleheart wood (regardless of the species) is very hard and dense, with an average specific gravity of about 0.86, and requires sharp tools for cutting.

Native to the tropical rainforests of Central and South America, Peltogyne paniculata trees grow to heights of about 100 to 150 feet, with trunk diameters reaching thicknesses of up to 5 feet.

Allergic reactions to Purpleheart dust can include skin irritation and/or nausea. Of course, as when working with any wood, adequate ventilation, as well as skin, eye, and breathing protection, are paramount. And when it comes to this wood in particular, remember, there's no need to buck for a Purple Heart just for working with Purpleheart!

And now about that color-changing thing. Over time, with exposure to ultraviolet light, Purpleheart will inevitably darken to a brownish color. This process can be slowed, although not completely stopped. Ah, such is life. To prolong the length of time that the wood remains a lustrous purple, it's recommended to periodically apply a UV-resistant finish to the completed piece.