Purpleheart (Peltogyne spp.)

Common Name: Purpleheart

Distribution: Central and South America (from Mexico down to Southern Brazil)

Color/Appearance: Deep eggplant purple. With further age and exposure to UV light, the wood becomes a dark brown with a hint of purple.

Janka Hardness: 2,520 lb_f

Density: 4.66/b.f.

Allergies/Toxicity: Most common reactions simply include eye and skin irritation. Purpleheart has also been reported to cause nausea.

Controlled species: CITES: no, IUCN: no

Common Uses: Inlays/accent pieces, flooring, furniture, boatbuilding, specialty wood items.