Wood Species Sapele

Sapele

Africa
Hardwood
Moderately durable

Sapele (Entandrophragma cylindricum) is a medium to heavy tropical hardwood native to West and Central Africa. It typically ranges in colour from pale pinkish-brown to deep reddish-brown, often darkening with age. The grain is usually interlocked, frequently producing an attractive ribbon or wavy figure when quarter-sawn, and the texture is fine to medium. Sapele is strong, durable and relatively stable once seasoned, though its interlocked grain can make machining more difficult and may require careful handling to avoid tear-out.

In the timber industry, sapele is widely used for high-quality furniture, cabinetry, interior joinery, doors, flooring and veneers. It is also commonly specified for architectural millwork, panelling and musical instruments, particularly where a mahogany-like appearance is desired. In addition, it is used for exterior joinery such as windows and doors when properly treated, as well as in boatbuilding and decorative applications where strength, durability and an attractive figured grain are valued.

Back to Construction, industrial, engineering