Ipe

Ipe (Handroanthus spp.) is known across Central and South America as an extremely dense, durable wood. It covers several species, so its color and grain vary quite a bit. In flooring it’s sometimes sold as “Brazilian Walnut,” though it isn’t related to walnut.
It can be a deep chocolate brown with a reddish tint, or more olive-toned with hints of yellow, orange or red, often with darker striping and occasional mottled figure. Left outdoors unfinished, it weathers to a silver grey.
The grain can be straight, irregular or interlocked, and the texture fine to medium with good luster. It’s famously hard on saw blades, so carbide tooling is a must, and you should pre-drill for fasteners. Straight-grained pieces plane and turn well, but always use your sharpest tools, and note that some boards contain a powdery yellow deposit called lapachol. Wear a dust mask, as the dust can irritate.
Ipe is virtually impossible to wear out and resists insects, rot and fire, which makes it a favorite for decking, boardwalks and flooring. It’s also used for outdoor furniture, handles, turnings and veneer. For a similar alternative, see Cumaru.
Listed in CITES Appendix II since November 2024 (Handroanthus, Roseodendron and Tabebuia species). The listing covers logs, sawn wood, veneer and plywood, so international shipments need CITES permits.
Why We Love This Wood
Virtually impossible to wear out, and its rich, deep color stays handsome for years.
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PRE-CUT SIZES (Ipe)
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LUMBER PACKS (Ipe)
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