Hardwood • Exotic Species

Tulipwood Wood Guide 2026

Dalbergia spp.

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

Typically described as colorful rosewood with stripes

Market Price Range

$18.00 – $35.00

per board foot

Exotic hardwood. Brazilian tulipwood (Dalbergia). Striking pink/red grain.

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

Wood Appearance

Tulipwood natural grain

Natural Grain

Tulipwood finished surface

Finished Surface

Key Takeaways

  • Density: 43 lbs/ft³
  • Classification: Hardwood
  • Origin: Brazil
  • Common uses include Decorative veneer, Furniture, Turnings

Quick Facts

Janka Hardness
1,200 lbf
Density
43 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
Not Recommended
Dimensional stability
Moderate

Texture: Fine and even texture.

Workability: Moderately difficult due to high density and oil content.

Fastening: Pre-drilling recommended for screws and nails.

Finishing: Polishes to a high luster but oils require degreasing for adhesives.

Color change: Creamy background with violet or red streaks which fade to brown.

Insect resistance: Moderately resistant to heartwood 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 Tulipwood. 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 3 inches to 6 inches limited.
    Lengths
    Random lengths 3 feet to 6 feet short stock.
    Request this size →
  • 8/4rough 2"
    Surfaced
    1-3/4"
    Widths
    Random widths 3 inches to 6 inches limited.
    Lengths
    Random lengths 3 feet to 6 feet short stock.
    Request this size →

Availability notes: Rare and typically sold in small specialized sizes.

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: Pink to yellow with red-purple stripes

Grain: Straight; fine texture

Common Uses

  • Decorative veneer
  • Furniture
  • Turnings

Key Characteristics

Also known as: Brazilian Tulipwood;Pinkwood

Availability: In Stock

Advantages

  • Janka indentation hardness: 1,200 lbf
  • Heartwood decay rating: Durable
  • Sourced from Brazil

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 Tulipwood is unavailable or over budget.

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