Purpleheart
From Floor Coverings
Contents |
Wood Species
Purpleheart
Biological name
Peltogyne paniculata
Originates from or commonly found in
Throughout Central & South America
Physical appearance
Purpleheart is a very tall, handsome canopy tree, averaging 120-150 feet in height in the natural rainforest, with diameters of 2-4 feet. The sapwood is an off-white to light cream color. The heartwood, the distinct characteristic of Purpleheart, is dull brown until exposure.
Flooring Properties
Purpleheart is one of the most distinct, exotic woods prized for its very unusual deep purple color. When freshly cut, this dense hardwood is light brown. Within minutes the surface turns an astonishing bright purple. Upon prolonged exposure to sunlight, the color gradually changes to a chocolate-purple color. This beautiful wood is straight to wavy grained, fine and uniform textured and fairly smooth with a medium to high luster. Purpleheart turns smoothly, is easy to glue, takes finishes well and is highly durable. Purpleheart undergoes two separate color changes. After the wood is cut, it darkens from brown to its more renowned vibrant purple. Additional exposure to sunlight will turn it back to brown with heavy purple undertones.
Janka Rating
Purpleheart has a hardness rating of 1860.
