Sapele (Entandrophragma cylindricum) is a tropical hardwood native to West and Central Africa, primarily found in countries like Nigeria, Ghana, Cameroon, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. It belongs to the Mahogany family (Meliaceae) and is highly valued for its rich color, durability, and striking grain patterns. Sapele is often used as a sustainable alternative to Genuine Mahogany, offering similar beauty and performance at a more affordable price.
Quality and Characteristics
Appearance
- Sapele has a reddish-brown to dark mahogany color, which deepens over time.
- It features a fine, interlocked grain, often displaying beautiful figures such as ribbon, fiddleback, and quilted patterns.
- The wood has a natural luster, giving it a luxurious and elegant appearance.
Durability and Strength
- Sapele is a hard and dense wood, with a Janka hardness rating of approximately 1,410 lbf (6,270 N), making it tougher than Genuine Mahogany.
- It is highly resistant to rot, insects, and moisture, making it an excellent choice for both indoor and outdoor applications.
- The wood has good dimensional stability, reducing the risk of warping and shrinking.
Workability
- Sapele is relatively easy to machine, cut, and shape, though its interlocked grain may cause some difficulty when planing.
- It glues, stains, and finishes beautifully, making it ideal for high-end furniture and decorative applications.
- It holds fine details well, making it a popular choice for intricate carvings and musical instruments.
Common Uses
- Luxury furniture and cabinetry
- Doors, window frames, and architectural millwork
- Flooring and paneling for high-end interiors
- Musical instruments (guitars, pianos, and violins)
- Boatbuilding and marine applications due to its water resistance
