Purpleheart: Exotic Wood
Purpleheart is a common exotic wood that is known for its purple color. Purpleheart is oftentimes mixed with other woods when color contrast is needed. A very popular choice to use with hard maple (for cutting boards, as an example), Purpleheart is dense and heavy. Purpleheart is a great exotic wood for beginners due to the affordable price point.
Characteristics
| Origin of Wood Type | South America |
| Botanical Name | Peltogyne Pubescens |
| Specific Gravity | .90 |
| Avg. Weight Per BF | 5.4 lbs |
| Color Range | Purple, but can occasionally have lighter sapwood |
| Rarity / Availability | Common |
| Typical Avg. Width | 5 – 16 inches |
| Typical Avg. Length | 8 – 16 feet |
| Avg. Waste Factor | 20% |
| Wood Uses | All woodworking projects, especially cutting boards and boxes |
| Lumber Grades | FAS |
| Other Trade Names | Purpleheart |