Hardwood • Exotic Species

Leopardwood Wood Guide 2026

Roupala spp.

Prepared by Lumberama's Wood Species Team
|Sources & methodology
Last updated September 2026 · Reviewed by Lumberama Wood Species Team

Typically described as strikingly figured with leopard spots

Market Price Range

$12.00 – $22.00

per board foot

Exotic hardwood. Dramatic spotted figure in quartersawn.

Prices are approximate market ranges and vary by grade, width, thickness, and region. Request a quote for current pricing.

Wood Appearance

Leopardwood natural grain

Natural Grain

Leopardwood finished surface

Finished Surface

Key Takeaways

  • Density: 52 lbs/ft³
  • Classification: Hardwood
  • Origin: Brazil
  • Common uses include Accent pieces, Inlays, Veneer

Quick Facts

Janka Hardness
2,150 lbf
Density
52 lbs/ft³
Wood Type
Hardwood
Origin
Brazil
Price Range
N/A
SoftHard

Representative reference values — natural wood varies by growing region, moisture content and individual board.

Durability, Stability & Workability

Decay resistance
Durable
Outdoor suitability
Limited
Dimensional stability
Moderate

Texture: Coarse with prominent figure from medullary rays.

Workability: Hard to work with hand and machine tools due to high density.

Fastening: Pre-drilling recommended for screws and nails.

Finishing: High oil content may cause finishing issues if not properly prepared.

Color change: Deepens to a darker brown with age.

Insect resistance: Good resistance to decay.

Ratings and published values are representative reference figures. Natural wood varies with growing region, moisture content and individual boards — treat them as guidance, not guarantees.

Common Sizes & Availability

Typical market availability for Leopardwood. Lumberama is a sourcing marketplace — actual stock, widths and lengths vary by supplier. Request a quote to confirm what's available for your project.

  • 4/4rough 1"
    Surfaced
    13/16" (3/4" common)
    Widths
    Random widths from 4 to 10 inches.
    Lengths
    Random lengths from 6 to 10 feet.
    Request this size →
  • 8/4rough 2"
    Surfaced
    1-3/4"
    Widths
    Random widths from 4 to 10 inches.
    Lengths
    Random lengths from 6 to 10 feet.
    Request this size →

Availability notes: Available from specialty dealers focusing on exotic hardwoods.

How lumber sizes are described
Rough (4/4, 8/4…)
Hardwood thickness in quarters of an inch as sawn, before surfacing. 4/4 = 1" rough.
Surfaced (S2S/S4S)
Thickness after planing. 4/4 typically finishes at 13/16" or 3/4".
Nominal vs. actual
Construction lumber is sold by nominal size; a 2x6 measures about 1-1/2" x 5-1/2".
Random width / length
Most hardwood is sold as it comes from the log — widths and lengths vary within a range rather than being fixed.

Color & Grain

Color: Medium to dark reddish brown

Grain: Straight; large rays

Common Uses

  • Accent pieces
  • Inlays
  • Veneer
  • Turnings

Key Characteristics

Also known as: Lacewood;Leopard Wood

Availability: In Stock

Advantages

  • Janka indentation hardness: 2,150 lbf
  • Heartwood decay rating: Durable
  • Sourced from Brazil
  • Excellent density for wear resistance

Considerations

  • Pre-drilling recommended for fasteners
  • Hardness does not establish decay resistance or structural design strength
  • Availability may vary

Frequently Asked Questions

Alternatives to Consider

Species commonly specified for similar applications when Leopardwood is unavailable or over budget.

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