Purpleheart
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Purpleheart (Peltogyne spp.) grows in the tropical Americas, from Mexico through Central America to southern Brazil. The sapwood is clearly distinct from the heartwood, which is recognizable by its unusual color: grayish purple when freshly cut, turning violet or deep purple as it oxidizes. The purple gradually fades to an attractive dark brown. This change is superficial; removing even a thin layer of wood restores the original color until it oxidizes again.
The texture is uniform and fine to medium. The grain is usually straight and occasionally interlocked; variations in its direction, luster and color create an attractive striped figure on radial surfaces. Density varies, averaging 880 kg/m³ when dry. Monnin hardness is approximately 7.6. Purpleheart has exceptional resistance to impact and high mechanical stress, and is a highly durable wood.
The texture is uniform and fine to medium. The grain is usually straight and occasionally interlocked; variations in its direction, luster and color create an attractive striped figure on radial surfaces. Density varies, averaging 880 kg/m³ when dry. Monnin hardness is approximately 7.6. Purpleheart has exceptional resistance to impact and high mechanical stress, and is a highly durable wood.
