Sapele is a reddish-brown hardwood native to tropical Africa, highly valued for its strength, durability, and striking grain pattern.

It is commonly used as a cost-effective alternative to mahogany, particularly in applications such as furniture, cabinetry, flooring, veneers, and musical instruments.

Sapele often features a distinctive interlocked or wavy grain, which can produce attractive ribbon-like figuring when quarter-sawn.

This aesthetic quality, combined with its mechanical strength, makes it a popular choice for both structural and decorative purposes.

Density and Strength

• Typical density (dried at 12% moisture content): ~640 kg/m³ (approx. 40 lbs/ft³)
• Density range: 640 to 825 kg/m³, depending on growth conditions and moisture content
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This medium-to-high density gives Sapele excellent strength and hardness, contributing to its reputation as a durable and stable hardwood.

It machines well but may require sharp tools due to its interlocked grain.