Sapele

Sapele is a premium African hardwood celebrated for its deep reddish-brown color, dramatic ribbon stripe figure, and exceptional durability. Often used as a high-end alternative to genuine mahogany, it offers greater hardness and a more pronounced visual character while retaining excellent workability.

The interlocked grain produces striking chatoyance — a shimmering effect that shifts in the light — especially on quartersawn surfaces. Dense, stable, and naturally lustrous, Sapele is a favorite for fine furniture, cabinetry, musical instruments, doors, and architectural millwork.

Botanical Information

Botanical Name: Entandrophragma cylindricum

Family: Meliaceae

Origin: Tropical Africa

Common & Trade Names

Sapele, Sapelli, Aboudikro

Key Characteristics

Medium to dark reddish-brown heartwood

Ribbon stripe figure on quartersawn faces

Fine to medium texture

Interlocked grain

High natural luster

More dense than true mahogany

Workability

Machines and turns well

Interlocked grain can cause tear-out

Glues and finishes beautifully

Excellent polishing qualities

Ideal Uses

Fine furniture, cabinetry, musical instruments, doors, veneers, flooring, turning blanks, luxury woodworking projects

Health & Safety Note

Dust may cause skin or respiratory irritation in sensitive individuals. Use proper dust collection and protection.

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