Padauk

Padauk is a striking tropical hardwood prized for its bright orange to reddish-brown heartwood that deepens to rich red or purplish tones over time, offering a bold and exotic aesthetic. Native to Africa and Southeast Asia, Padauk is celebrated for its durability, stability, and workability, making it a favorite among artisans and woodworkers.

Its straight to interlocked grain and medium to coarse texture allow Padauk to machine, turn, and sand smoothly, producing a polished surface that highlights its vivid color. Ideal for pen blanks, knife handles, turned objects, inlays, and small furniture accents, Padauk combines both visual appeal and functional strength.

Botanical Information

Scientific Name: Pterocarpus spp.

Family: Fabaceae

Origin: Africa (Central and West) and Southeast Asia

Common & Trade Names

Padauk, African Padauk, East Indian Padauk, Burmese Padauk, Pterocarpus

Key Characteristics

Heartwood: bright orange to reddish-brown, deepening with age

Sapwood: pale, sharply defined

Straight to interlocked grain

Medium to coarse texture

Dense, durable, and stable

Smooth natural luster when finished

Workability

Machines, sands, and turns well with sharp tools

Accepts stains, oils, and finishes beautifully

Glues and polishes reliably

Dense and strong; suitable for small precision projects

Health & Safety Note

Padauk dust may cause skin, eye, or respiratory irritation. Use proper dust extraction, respirator, and eye protection when machining or sanding.

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