Purpleheart

Common Name(s)

Purpleheart, Amaranth

Scientific Name

Peltogyne spp.

Tree Distribution

Central and South America (from Mexico down to southern Brazil)

Tree Size

100-170 ft. tall, 3-5 ft. trunk diameter

Janka Hardness

2520 lbf

Appearance

When freshly cut the heartwood of Purpleheart is a dull grayish/purplish brown. Upon exposure the wood becomes a deeper eggplant purple. With further age and exposure to UV light, the wood becomes a dark brown with a hint of purple. This color-shift can be slowed and minimized by using a UV inhibiting finish on the wood.

Grain / Texture

The grain is usually straight, but can also be wavy or irregular. Has a medium texture with good natural luster.

Pricing / Availability

Widely available as lumber in good widths and thicknesses. Prices are in the low to medium range for an imported hardwood.

- Information cited from Wood-Database.com