Purpleheart Wood Guide 2026
Peltogyne spp.
Typically described as vivid purple durable wood
Wood Appearance
Natural Grain
Finished Surface
Key Takeaways
- Density: 48 lbs/ft³
- Classification: Hardwood
- Origin: Brazil;Guyana
- Common uses include Decorative flooring, Inlays, Turnings
Quick Facts
Representative reference values — natural wood varies by growing region, moisture content and individual board.
Durability, Stability & Workability
Texture: The texture is medium to fine and uniform.
Workability: It can be difficult to work due to high density and the tendency to exude resin.
Fastening: Pre-drilling recommended for screws and nails.
Finishing: It can be finicky to glue and finish due to natural oils.
Color change: Exposure to UV light turns the vibrant purple color to a deep brown.
Insect resistance: It is resistant to termites and fungal 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 Purpleheart. Lumberama is a sourcing marketplace — actual stock, widths and lengths vary by supplier. Request a quote to confirm what's available for your project.
| Thickness | Rough | Typical surfaced | Typical widths | Common lengths | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4/4 | 1" | 13/16" (3/4" common) | Available in random widths. | Typically sold in random lengths. | Request this size |
| 5/4 | 1-1/4" | 1-1/16" | Available in random widths. | Typically sold in random lengths. | Request this size |
| 6/4 | 1-1/2" | 1-5/16" | Available in random widths. | Typically sold in random lengths. | Request this size |
| 8/4 | 2" | 1-3/4" | Available in random widths. | Typically sold in random lengths. | Request this size |
- 4/4rough 1"
- Surfaced
- 13/16" (3/4" common)
- Widths
- Available in random widths.
- Lengths
- Typically sold in random lengths.
- 5/4rough 1-1/4"
- Surfaced
- 1-1/16"
- Widths
- Available in random widths.
- Lengths
- Typically sold in random lengths.
- 6/4rough 1-1/2"
- Surfaced
- 1-5/16"
- Widths
- Available in random widths.
- Lengths
- Typically sold in random lengths.
- 8/4rough 2"
- Surfaced
- 1-3/4"
- Widths
- Available in random widths.
- Lengths
- Typically sold in random lengths.
Decking & exterior profiles
Available as specialty exterior decking.
Availability notes: It is imported and generally stocked by specialty hardwood dealers.
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: Bright purple; fades to dark brown
Grain: Straight to wavy; fine texture
Common Uses
- Decorative flooring
- Inlays
- Turnings
- Accent pieces
Key Characteristics
Also known as: Amaranth;Violetwood
Availability: In Stock
Advantages
- Janka indentation hardness: 2,520 lbf
- Heartwood decay rating: Very Durable
- Sourced from Brazil;Guyana
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 Purpleheart is unavailable or over budget.
Related Species
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