We are proud to have the largest selection of Exotic Hardwoods in the Twin Cities! Whether you have a specific species in mind or are just looking at options, feel free to stop in and see what is available. Out exotic hardwoods selection typically includes:
All sales available in store at our Savage location.
Whether you’re in store or online, we strive to provide all of the information you need to pick the perfect materials for your project. Use our exotic hardwoods selection guide to help point you to the right direction or visit our store to see our full inventory.
African Mahogany is a richly colored hardwood known for its deep reddish-brown tone and beautiful grain patterns. It’s a popular choice for both fine furniture and architectural woodworking. Here’s a breakdown of its benefits and best use cases:
Workability: Cuts cleanly and machines well, with minimal tear-out when tools are sharp. Easy to sand, glue, and finish.
Rich Aesthetic: Features a warm reddish-brown hue with interlocking or wavy grain that adds natural character. Ages beautifully over time.
Moderate Durability: Offers decent resistance to decay and wear, making it suitable for both interior and some protected exterior applications.
Stable and Lightweight (for a hardwood): Compared to other tropical hardwoods, African Mahogany is relatively lightweight and stable — less prone to warping or movement.
Cost-Effective Alternative
Often used as a more affordable substitute for genuine Honduran mahogany or sapele, while still delivering a high-end appearance.
Custom Furniture: Perfect for fine cabinetry, desks, tables, and bookcases thanks to its luxurious look and workability.
Architectural Millwork: Often used in high-end trim, paneling, doors, and moldings in residential and commercial builds.
Musical Instruments: Commonly used in guitars and other string instruments for its warm tone and striking appearance.
Boat Interiors & Protected Exterior Trim: While not ideal for full marine exposure, it’s suitable for interior boatwork or exterior accents with proper sealing.
Black Limba is a visually striking hardwood native to West Africa, prized for its bold grain contrast and warm, earthy tones. It’s a favorite among woodworkers who want to make a design statement without sacrificing workability. Here’s a breakdown of its benefits and best use cases:
Workability: Machines easily with both hand and power tools. Cuts clean and finishes well, making it user-friendly even for more detailed woodworking projects.
Distinct Appearance: Known for its dramatic streaks of black, brown, and gold, Black Limba stands out visually. Each board is unique, making it a great choice for one-of-a-kind pieces.
Moderate Density: It’s not too heavy, which makes it easier to handle during builds and installations. Offers a good balance between strength and weight.
Tonal Qualities: In addition to its looks, Black Limba has favorable acoustic properties, which make it a go-to for guitar builders and luthiers.
Natural Luster: The wood has a subtle natural sheen, even before finishing, which enhances its appearance and depth when sealed or oiled.
Best Use Cases for Black Limba
Custom Furniture: Ideal for eye-catching tables, cabinetry, shelving, and accent pieces that showcase its natural character.
Electric Guitars: A top choice in the boutique guitar market for bodies, tops, and necks due to its appearance and sound qualities.
Interior Paneling: Works well as wall cladding or paneling in luxury spaces where a bold, organic aesthetic is desired.
Accent Details: Perfect for drawer fronts, inlays, or feature panels where visual interest is the priority.
Bloodwood is a dense, exotic hardwood native to South America, instantly recognizable for its vibrant, deep red color that darkens beautifully with age. Its bold appearance and exceptional hardness make it a standout choice for decorative and high-end applications. Here’s a breakdown of its benefits and best use cases:
Striking Color: One of the most visually intense hardwoods available, Bloodwood has a rich crimson hue that sets it apart. When freshly cut, the color is almost fluorescent red and gradually deepens into a darker, more elegant tone over time.
Exceptional Hardness: Very dense and durable, Bloodwood resists denting and wear, making it ideal for applications where toughness and longevity are key.
High Natural Luster: Finishes to a glass-like polish with minimal effort. The wood’s natural sheen enhances its deep color and gives projects a high-end, refined look.
Dimensional Stability: Despite its density, Bloodwood remains relatively stable once dried properly, with minimal movement or warping over time.
Longevity: With proper care, Bloodwood can last for decades, retaining both its strength and its dramatic visual appeal.
Custom Inlays: Popular in fine woodworking for inlays, trim, and accent details due to its vibrant color and ability to hold crisp lines.
High-End Furniture: Used sparingly in statement pieces like tabletops, drawer fronts, or decorative edges where color contrast is desired.
Turned Objects: Ideal for bowls, pens, knife handles, and other lathe-turned pieces where a dense, stable, and vibrant wood is preferred.
Musical Instruments: Occasionally used in guitars and other stringed instruments, especially for fretboards and decorative elements.
Brazilian Cherry, also known as Jatoba, is a dense and durable hardwood native to Central and South America. Known for its rich reddish-brown tones and impressive strength, it’s a favorite for flooring and other high-traffic applications. Here’s a breakdown of its benefits and best use cases:
Exceptional Hardness: One of the hardest commercially available hardwoods, Brazilian Cherry is incredibly resistant to dents, scratches, and wear, making it ideal for areas that see a lot of use.
Deep, Rich Color: Ranges from light salmon to deep reddish-brown, with dramatic color variation that deepens over time. Its natural warmth brings a luxurious feel to any space.
High Durability: Built to last for decades, even under heavy foot traffic or frequent use. Once installed and sealed, it requires minimal maintenance.
Natural Sheen: Polishes to a smooth, lustrous finish that highlights the wood’s grain and color variation, enhancing its overall aesthetic.
Dimensional Stability: Once acclimated, it performs well in changing environments and resists seasonal movement better than many other hardwoods.
Hardwood Flooring: One of the most popular uses for Brazilian Cherry, it provides a bold, long-lasting surface that adds value and character to residential and commercial spaces.
Stair Treads and Railings: Ideal for high-traffic architectural details where strength and beauty are both important.
Cabinetry and Millwork: Adds a refined, high-end look to built-ins, custom cabinets, and detailed interior trim.
Furniture: Suitable for heavier furniture pieces like dining tables, dressers, and desks that benefit from its weight and durability.
Guitar and Instrument Components: Occasionally used for necks, bridges, or fretboards where hardness and tonal properties matter.
Canary Wood is a vibrant and exotic hardwood native to Central and South America, known for its striking color variations and smooth workability. Its unique appearance and reliable performance make it a favorite for woodworkers looking to add a bold, natural statement to their projects. Here’s a breakdown of its benefits and best use cases:
Color Variety: Offers a natural mix of yellow, orange, red, and even purplish streaks that create dramatic, one-of-a-kind visuals. No two boards look the same, making it ideal for standout projects.
Smooth Workability: Despite its density, Canary Wood machines, glues, and finishes well. It takes a high polish and sands to a silky surface without much difficulty.
Durable and Stable: With good resistance to wear, decay, and insect attack, it’s a reliable option for both functional and decorative applications.
Natural Luster: Has a soft, glowing sheen that enhances its already dynamic grain pattern, especially when finished with oils or clear coats.
Moderate Density: Offers a solid feel without being overly heavy, striking a good balance between strength and ease of handling.
Custom Furniture: A popular choice for tabletops, drawer fronts, and accent pieces where natural color variation is a design feature.
Turned Projects: Frequently used for bowls, pens, and other lathe-turned items that highlight its grain and vibrant hues.
Musical Instruments: Selected for bodies or decorative elements on guitars and other stringed instruments thanks to its tonal and visual qualities.
Interior Accents: Perfect for statement millwork, paneling, or wall features that benefit from its warm, exotic look.
Caribbean Rosewood, also known as Metopium brownei or Chechen, is a richly colored tropical hardwood found throughout the Caribbean and parts of Central America. Valued for its dramatic grain patterns and impressive density, it’s a top choice for projects where both beauty and durability are essential. Here’s a breakdown of its benefits and best use cases:
Striking Grain Pattern: Features bold contrast between golden tans, rich browns, deep reds, and sometimes dark purples. Its dramatic figuring makes it a visually powerful material for artistic and upscale work.
High Density and Strength: Extremely hard and durable, Caribbean Rosewood is well-suited for applications that require structural integrity and resistance to wear.
Natural Luster: Finishes to a deep, glass-like polish with minimal effort. Its surface has a natural shine that enhances its rich coloration and bold figure.
Good Dimensional Stability: Once properly dried, it’s a stable wood that resists warping and movement, making it suitable for detailed joinery and fine craftsmanship.
Decay and Insect Resistance: Offers good natural resistance to rot and pests, adding to its long-term performance.
Luxury Furniture: A premium choice for heirloom-quality tables, cabinets, and casework where beauty and durability are both important.
Musical Instruments: Frequently used in guitars, particularly for fretboards, backs, and sides due to its density and striking appearance.
Custom Flooring: Though more niche, it’s sometimes used in high-end flooring where visual impact and toughness are required.
Turned Objects: Ideal for pens, bowls, handles, and other turned pieces that benefit from its color contrast and polish potential.
Architectural Accents: Used in upscale interiors for trim, paneling, and feature elements where richness of tone and figure are design priorities.
Cumaru, also known as Brazilian Teak, is a dense, durable hardwood native to South America. Revered for its exceptional strength, rich color, and resistance to the elements, it’s commonly used in both indoor and outdoor applications where longevity is key. Here’s a breakdown of its benefits and best use cases:
Extreme Hardness: One of the hardest woods available, Cumaru ranks very high on the Janka scale, making it incredibly resistant to wear, dents, and surface damage.
Exceptional Durability: Naturally resistant to rot, insects, and moisture, Cumaru performs exceptionally well in harsh climates and high-traffic environments.
Rich Color and Grain: Ranges from golden tan to reddish-brown with subtle streaks and a fine, interlocking grain. It darkens gracefully over time, developing a warm, mature patina.
Low Maintenance: Once installed and finished properly, Cumaru requires minimal upkeep, especially in decking or exterior use where its natural oils help preserve it.
Long Lifespan: Known to last 25+ years outdoors and even longer indoors, Cumaru is a long-term investment that holds up beautifully over time.
Exterior Decking: One of the most popular hardwoods for high-end decks due to its weather resistance, hardness, and natural beauty.
Outdoor Furniture: Ideal for benches, chairs, and tables exposed to the elements, especially in humid or coastal climates.
Hardwood Flooring: A durable and luxurious option for residential and commercial flooring where longevity and scratch resistance are important.
Stair Treads and Railings: Excellent for both interior and exterior stairs, offering long-lasting performance and a rich appearance.
Heavy-Duty Millwork: Suitable for applications like door thresholds, exterior cladding, or architectural accents where strength and durability are essential.
Ipe, also known as Brazilian Walnut, is one of the hardest and most durable hardwoods in the world. Native to Central and South America, it’s prized for its incredible strength, resistance to the elements, and rich, elegant appearance. Whether used indoors or out, Ipe delivers unmatched performance and longevity. Here’s a breakdown of its benefits and best use cases:
Unmatched Hardness: Ipe ranks extremely high on the Janka hardness scale, making it nearly impervious to dents, scratches, and heavy wear. It’s denser than most woods—and even some metals—making it ideal for high-traffic or high-impact areas.
Exceptional Weather Resistance: Naturally resistant to moisture, rot, decay, and insects, Ipe is one of the best woods for outdoor use. It performs exceptionally well in rain, snow, and sun without warping or splintering.
Longevity: Known to last 40+ years with minimal maintenance, and up to 75 years in some outdoor conditions. It’s a long-term investment that outperforms many composite materials.
Rich Aesthetic: Offers a deep brown color with hints of olive and red. Left untreated, it naturally weathers to a silvery gray, though its original tone can be preserved with periodic oiling.
Low Maintenance: Requires very little upkeep beyond cleaning. It doesn’t need sealers or finishes to maintain structural integrity.
Premium Decking: The gold standard for outdoor decks, Ipe offers unmatched durability, slip resistance, and a high-end finish that lasts for decades.
Outdoor Structures: Ideal for docks, boardwalks, pergolas, and fencing where structural strength and weather resistance are critical.
High-End Flooring: Though harder to install, Ipe makes a stunning and nearly indestructible flooring option for interiors, especially in high-use areas.
Stairs and Railings: Perfect for treads, risers, and exterior rail systems where both looks and performance matter.
Architectural Details: Frequently used for cladding, accent walls, and rain screens in luxury builds where aesthetics and longevity are non-negotiable.
Kosso, also known as African Rosewood or Pterocarpus erinaceus, is a dense and beautifully figured hardwood native to West Africa. Though not as widely known as some exotic species, it’s gaining popularity for its warm tones, durability, and versatility across both decorative and functional woodworking. Here’s a breakdown of its benefits and best use cases:
Warm, Elegant Color: Kosso typically ranges from light golden brown to deep reddish-brown, often with darker streaks or highlights. Its subtle color variation gives it a sophisticated, natural appeal.
Attractive Grain Pattern: The grain is generally straight or interlocked with a medium to coarse texture, offering depth and visual interest without being overly bold.
Good Durability: Kosso is a relatively hard and dense wood, offering good resistance to wear, insects, and decay. It performs well in both interior and certain protected exterior applications.
Workability: Machines well with sharp tools and sands to a smooth finish. It accepts stains, oils, and finishes evenly, bringing out the richness of the grain.
Stability: Once properly dried, Kosso exhibits good dimensional stability, reducing the risk of warping or movement over time.
Custom Furniture: Ideal for desks, tables, cabinetry, and shelving where natural warmth and understated elegance are desired.
Musical Instruments: Occasionally used in guitars and other stringed instruments for back and side sets, thanks to its balanced tonal characteristics and visual appeal.
Architectural Millwork: Suitable for trim, paneling, and decorative elements in both residential and commercial interiors.
Turned Projects: A great option for bowls, vases, and other turned pieces where its warm coloration and consistent texture can shine.
Veneers and Decorative Panels: Used in high-end cabinetry, interior wall treatments, and fine furniture where a refined, exotic look is needed without overpowering a design.
Granadillo is a dense and vibrant hardwood native to Central America, often compared to rosewood for its rich color, fine texture, and musical resonance. Known for its durability and elegant appearance, it’s a top-tier choice for both functional and artistic woodworking. Here’s a breakdown of its benefits and best use cases:
Rich Color and Grain: Ranges from reddish-brown to deep purple or chocolate, often accented with darker streaks. Its fine, uniform grain gives it a luxurious, polished look, even before finishing.
Exceptional Hardness: Extremely dense and strong, Granadillo is highly resistant to dents, scratches, and wear—making it suitable for demanding applications.
Acoustic Qualities: Praised for its bright, clear tonal properties, Granadillo is a favorite among luthiers and woodwind makers for both its sound and stability.
Smooth Workability: Despite its density, it turns, sands, and polishes exceptionally well. It responds beautifully to oils and natural finishes, which highlight its depth and luster.
Dimensional Stability: Once properly dried, it remains stable with minimal movement, making it a reliable choice for detailed joinery and precision work.
Musical Instruments: Widely used in guitars, xylophones, marimbas, and woodwind instruments for its superior tone, sustain, and resonance.
High-End Furniture: Ideal for fine furniture and cabinetry where durability and a refined, exotic aesthetic are both important.
Turned Objects: Perfect for bowls, pens, tool handles, and other lathe projects that benefit from its density and ability to take a high polish.
Knife Scales and Handles: Its hardness, stability, and beautiful grain make it a top-tier choice for custom knife makers.
Architectural Details: Suitable for decorative panels, trim, and accents in luxury interiors where bold character and performance are key.
Lacewood is a distinctive hardwood known for its striking, lace-like figure and warm, reddish-brown tone. Native to regions like South America and Australia (depending on the species), it’s prized for its dramatic appearance and smooth finish. Often used for decorative applications, Lacewood brings instant visual interest to any project. Here’s a breakdown of its benefits and best use cases:
Unique Figure: Lacewood is instantly recognizable for its “medullary ray” pattern—a shimmering, flecked texture that resembles lace or leopard spots. This figure creates a bold, decorative effect that’s impossible to replicate with other woods.
Warm, Natural Color: Ranges from light pinkish-brown to medium reddish-brown, often with golden flecks that catch the light and add depth to the grain.
Smooth Workability: Machines well with sharp tools and sands to a fine, even surface. It takes finishes and oils nicely, which enhance its natural shimmer.
Moderate Density: Offers a solid, stable feel without being overly heavy, making it manageable for both furniture and detailed craftwork.
Eye-Catching Aesthetic: Its unique appearance makes it a favorite among designers and artisans who want to make a visual statement with natural materials.
Accent Furniture: Perfect for drawer fronts, tabletops, and cabinet panels where its bold figure can be showcased as a focal point.
Decorative Veneers: Frequently sliced into veneers for use in fine furniture, interior panels, and custom cabinetry.
Turned Objects: Great for bowls, pens, and small boxes that highlight the intricate grain pattern.
Musical Instruments: Occasionally used for tops and accents on guitars or ukuleles, especially in custom builds that emphasize aesthetics.
Architectural Details: Used for wall panels, inlays, or trim in luxury interiors where distinctive character is desired.
Makore is a rich, reddish-brown hardwood native to West and Central Africa, often compared to mahogany for its appearance and performance. Known for its fine texture, lustrous finish, and consistent grain, Makore is a versatile wood used in both decorative and structural applications. Here’s a breakdown of its benefits and best use cases:
Consistent Appearance: Makore has a fine, even texture with straight to slightly interlocked grain, making it ideal for applications where a uniform, polished look is important.
Attractive Color: The heartwood ranges from pinkish-red to deep reddish-brown and darkens slightly over time, developing a warm, elegant patina.
Smooth Workability: Machines and sands well with sharp tools. Its density allows for precise cuts and clean finishes, especially when sealed or polished.
High Durability: Offers excellent resistance to wear and has moderate natural decay resistance, making it suitable for both furniture and architectural millwork.
Natural Luster: The wood’s surface has a beautiful, natural sheen that enhances depth and gives it a refined, high-end look with minimal finishing effort.
High-End Cabinetry: Perfect for custom cabinets, case goods, and built-ins where a rich, consistent appearance is desired.
Architectural Millwork: Commonly used for paneling, trim, and crown molding in upscale interiors due to its color and fine texture.
Furniture Making: Suitable for elegant tables, desks, and shelving that highlight its straight grain and polished finish.
Musical Instruments: Occasionally used in piano cabinetry or guitar backs and sides thanks to its density and resonant tonal qualities.
Veneers and Interior Paneling: Frequently sliced into veneers for use in commercial interiors, yachts, and luxury builds where visual refinement is key.
Marblewood is a striking tropical hardwood native to northern South America, especially Brazil, known for its dramatic grain patterns that resemble flowing marble. With its bold yellow-brown background streaked with dark brown to black veins, Marblewood is favored for artistic and high-impact visual applications. Here’s a breakdown of its benefits and best use cases:
Bold Appearance: Marblewood lives up to its name with highly contrasting, marble-like grain patterns that make each piece truly unique and visually impactful.
High Density: This wood is extremely hard and heavy, offering excellent durability and resistance to dents, scratches, and general wear.
Natural Luster: Finishes to a beautiful, glossy sheen with minimal effort. Its surface takes oil and polish exceptionally well, enhancing the dramatic grain.
Good Stability: Once properly dried, Marblewood is relatively stable and resists warping or movement, even in challenging environments.
Distinctive Character: Its unique coloration and patterning make it a top choice for projects that need to stand out without sacrificing performance.
Statement Furniture: Ideal for tables, drawer fronts, and accent pieces where its natural figure can serve as a visual centerpiece.
Turned Objects: A popular choice for high-end bowls, pens, tool handles, and other lathe-turned projects that highlight its vibrant grain.
Custom Knife Handles: Often used in fine knife making where durability and dramatic aesthetics are both essential.
Decorative Veneers: Sliced into veneers for luxury interiors, cabinetry, and wall treatments where bold natural texture is desired.
Musical Instruments: Occasionally used for decorative components on guitars and other string instruments to add visual flair.
Monkey Pod, also known as Albizia saman or Rain Tree, is a tropical hardwood native to Central and South America and widely grown in Southeast Asia and the Pacific. It’s admired for its flowing grain, rich golden to dark brown tones, and wide slabs—making it especially popular for large, statement pieces. With its combination of beauty, sustainability, and workability, Monkey Pod offers a unique balance of function and artistry. Here’s a breakdown of its benefits and best use cases:
Striking Grain and Color: Monkey Pod features golden to medium brown heartwood with streaks of darker brown, often bordered by a creamy sapwood that creates a natural, dramatic contrast.
Wide Slab Availability: Commonly available in large, live-edge slabs, making it ideal for one-piece tables and other expansive surfaces.
Good Workability: Machines, sands, and finishes easily. Despite its interlocking grain, it’s generally easy to work with hand or power tools and responds well to oils and finishes.
Moderate Density: Durable enough for furniture and surfaces, yet lighter than many tropical hardwoods, making it easier to handle and transport.
Eco-Friendly and Sustainable: Often plantation-grown or harvested from non-threatened species, Monkey Pod is considered an environmentally responsible hardwood choice.
Live-Edge Tables: A go-to choice for dining tables, conference tables, and coffee tables that showcase the wood’s wide grain and flowing natural edges.
Statement Furniture: Ideal for desks, benches, and headboards where its warm tone and unique figuring can stand out.
Countertops and Bar Tops: Used in kitchens, restaurants, and commercial spaces for a high-impact, natural look that holds up to regular use.
Decorative Slabs and Wall Art: Perfect for large panels, signage, or wall features where the grain can be used as a design element.
Turned Items and Décor: Also used for bowls, trays, and other decorative pieces where the light and dark contrast adds character and elegance.
Purpleheart is a dense, exotic hardwood native to Central and South America, best known for its vivid purple hue that sets it apart from virtually any other wood species. Renowned for its strength, durability, and unmistakable color, Purpleheart is both a functional and decorative favorite among woodworkers and designers alike. Here’s a breakdown of its benefits and best use cases:
Vibrant Color: Freshly cut, the wood appears a dull brown but quickly oxidizes to a rich, deep purple. With proper finishing and UV protection, the color can be preserved and even enhanced over time.
Extreme Hardness: Very dense and strong, Purpleheart offers excellent resistance to dents, scratches, and wear—making it highly durable in both indoor and outdoor applications.
High Strength-to-Weight Ratio: Its combination of strength and density makes it suitable for structural applications, not just decorative ones.
Naturally Decay-Resistant: Exhibits good resistance to rot, moisture, and insect damage, especially when properly sealed or finished.
Smooth Finish: Despite its hardness, it machines cleanly with sharp tools and finishes to a smooth, polished surface that enhances its bold color and grain.
Custom Furniture: Used in everything from dining tables and desks to accent panels and shelving where bold color is a design feature.
Inlays and Decorative Accents: A popular choice for contrast in multi-wood projects, such as cutting boards, boxes, and cabinetry details.
Turned Items: Frequently used in pens, bowls, and tool handles for its density and ability to take a flawless polish.
Flooring and Stair Treads: Suitable for heavy-use areas where both durability and aesthetics are important.
Musical Instruments: Occasionally used in guitars, basses, and percussion instruments for both its tonal properties and eye-catching appearance.
Purple “Rain” Poplar is a unique and eye-catching variety of poplar hardwood that has been thermally treated and pressure-stained to achieve its dramatic purple and violet hues. While it shares the same working properties as traditional poplar, its bold coloration transforms it into a statement material for artistic and decorative woodworking. Here’s a breakdown of its benefits and best use cases:
Striking Color: Known for its vivid blend of purples, violets, and deep grays, Purple “Rain” Poplar delivers a one-of-a-kind visual experience. The color is consistent throughout the board due to the unique thermal and dyeing process.
Smooth Workability: Like standard poplar, it machines, sands, glues, and finishes easily, making it a great option for beginner and advanced woodworkers alike.
Affordable Exotic Look: Offers the aesthetic appeal of exotic hardwoods without the price tag, making it a cost-effective choice for bold design projects.
Lightweight and Stable: Easier to handle than denser hardwoods, and once properly dried, it remains stable with minimal warping or movement.
Eco-Friendly Process: Often sourced from fast-growing poplar trees and colored through non-toxic, pressure-infused staining methods that reduce waste and maximize sustainability.
Accent Furniture: Perfect for drawer fronts, tabletops, and cabinet doors where vibrant color is the focal point.
Decorative Panels and Wall Art: Used in custom wall installations, acoustic panels, and artwork where a dramatic, modern flair is desired.
Interior Millwork: Great for trim, moldings, and feature details in contemporary spaces that embrace color and texture.
Small Woodcrafts: Ideal for boxes, frames, and small décor items where its unique color can be fully appreciated.
Instrument Accents and Custom Builds: Occasionally used in guitars, drum shells, and other musical projects to create a visually unforgettable finish.
Red Grandis is a fast-growing, plantation-grown hardwood native to South America, particularly Uruguay and Brazil. Sustainably harvested and FSC-certified, it’s an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional hardwoods like mahogany, offering great workability, durability, and a consistent appearance. Here’s a breakdown of its benefits and best use cases:
Consistent Color and Grain: Red Grandis features a uniform, pale pink to light reddish-brown color with a fine, straight grain. Its consistent look makes it ideal for large-scale projects or matching panels and components.
Excellent Workability: Machines, sands, and finishes easily with both hand and power tools. It glues well and accepts stains and clear finishes evenly for a refined appearance.
Moderate Durability: Offers good resistance to decay and wear, making it suitable for both interior and select exterior applications when properly sealed.
Dimensional Stability: Dries evenly and remains stable with minimal shrinkage or movement, making it reliable for cabinetry, joinery, and millwork.
Sustainable and FSC-Certified: Grown in responsibly managed plantations, Red Grandis is a renewable, eco-conscious alternative to slower-growing tropical hardwoods.
Doors and Windows: Widely used in solid wood door and window manufacturing due to its stability and clean finish.
Interior Trim and Millwork: Ideal for molding, baseboards, paneling, and built-ins where consistency and ease of finishing are important.
Furniture: Suitable for tables, cabinetry, and shelving with a smooth, uniform appearance and great working properties.
Architectural Woodwork: Used in residential and commercial projects for frames, beams, and accents where sustainable hardwood is preferred.
Exterior Use (with Sealing): When properly sealed, Red Grandis performs well in protected outdoor settings like covered porches, pergolas, or entry doors.
Santos Mahogany, also known as Myroxylon balsamum, is a dense, richly colored hardwood native to Central and South America. Known for its deep reddish-brown tones and exceptional durability, it’s a premium material often chosen for luxury interiors, high-traffic flooring, and fine furniture. With its dramatic appearance and long-lasting performance, Santos Mahogany delivers both style and strength. Here’s a breakdown of its benefits and best use cases:
Rich, Deep Color: Ranges from dark reddish-brown to purplish-burgundy with subtle streaking. The color deepens over time, developing a sophisticated, elegant patina.
Exceptional Hardness: Significantly harder than genuine mahogany, Santos Mahogany offers outstanding resistance to dents, scratches, and surface wear.
High Durability: Ideal for long-term performance in high-use environments. Naturally resistant to rot, insects, and moisture when properly finished.
Natural Luster: Polishes to a glassy, refined finish that highlights its rich color and fine grain, adding a luxurious touch to any project.
Dimensional Stability: Once seasoned, it remains stable under changing environmental conditions, making it a reliable option for flooring and detailed joinery.
Hardwood Flooring: A top-tier choice for residential and commercial flooring that balances beauty with durability in high-traffic areas.
Fine Furniture: Excellent for high-end tables, cabinetry, and case goods where a bold, luxurious look is desired.
Architectural Millwork: Perfect for doors, trim, paneling, and staircases in upscale interiors where visual impact and long-term performance matter.
Musical Instruments: Occasionally used for backs and sides of guitars and other instruments due to its density and tonal quality.
Custom Accents and Veneers: Used in luxury interiors, yacht builds, and specialty veneers where elegance and rich coloration are key.
Sapele is a versatile and visually stunning hardwood native to tropical Africa, often chosen as a sustainable alternative to genuine mahogany. Known for its deep reddish-brown tones, interlocking grain, and shimmering ribbon figure, Sapele is a favorite in fine woodworking, architectural design, and musical instrument construction. Here’s a breakdown of its benefits and best use cases:
Elegant Appearance: Ranges from golden to deep reddish-brown, often displaying a beautiful ribbon-like grain when quartersawn. Its rich color and texture give it a high-end, luxurious look.
Excellent Workability: Machines, sands, and finishes smoothly with both hand and power tools. It responds well to stains and polishes, making it easy to achieve a refined finish.
High Strength and Durability: Offers good hardness and wear resistance, making it suitable for both decorative and structural applications.
Distinctive Grain Options: Available in a variety of grain cuts—flat-sawn, quartersawn, or figured—each offering a unique aesthetic, from subtle waves to dramatic chatoyance.
Sustainable Alternative: Widely available and responsibly harvested, Sapele is considered a more environmentally friendly substitute for traditional mahogany species.
High-End Furniture: Ideal for tables, desks, cabinetry, and shelving where elegance and durability are key.
Architectural Millwork: Commonly used for paneling, crown molding, doors, and trim in luxury homes and commercial spaces.
Musical Instruments: Frequently used in guitars, ukuleles, and percussion instruments for its tonal richness and striking visual appeal.
Veneers and Decorative Panels: Sliced into veneers for fine cabinetry, yacht interiors, and premium wall treatments.
Flooring and Stair Components: A strong and stylish option for hardwood flooring, stair treads, and risers in high-traffic areas.
Shedua, also known as Ovangkol, is a beautiful tropical hardwood native to West and Central Africa. Valued for its rich, earthy color and distinctive grain patterns, Shedua offers a unique combination of visual character and reliable workability. It’s often used in both fine woodworking and musical instrument making thanks to its balanced properties and natural elegance. Here’s a breakdown of its benefits and best use cases:
Distinctive Grain and Color: Shedua ranges from golden brown to dark brown, often featuring black striping or figuring that gives it a bold, organic appearance. The grain can be straight, wavy, or interlocked, adding visual depth to finished projects.
Good Workability: Machines and finishes well with sharp tools. It glues and sands cleanly, and responds nicely to both oil and film finishes that highlight its natural color and texture.
Strong and Durable: Offers a good balance of strength, hardness, and durability, making it suitable for both functional and decorative uses.
Natural Luster: Exhibits a subtle sheen that comes alive when polished or oiled, enhancing the richness of its color and grain.
Acoustic Properties: Known for its tonal balance and resonance, Shedua is favored by luthiers for both its aesthetic appeal and sound performance.
Fine Furniture: Excellent for statement furniture pieces such as tables, cabinets, and shelving that showcase its dramatic grain and earthy tones.
Musical Instruments: Commonly used in acoustic and electric guitars, particularly for backs, sides, and necks where tone and visual impact matter.
Architectural Millwork: Suitable for upscale paneling, doors, and trim where natural variation and luxury aesthetics are desired.
Turned Projects: A solid choice for bowls, pens, and other lathe-turned items that benefit from its color contrast and smooth polish.
Veneers and Decorative Accents: Often used in high-end veneers, interior accents, and custom woodwork that highlight its distinctive appearance.
Sipo, also known as Entandrophragma utile or Utile, is a tropical hardwood native to West and Central Africa. Closely related to genuine mahogany, Sipo is prized for its warm color, smooth texture, and consistent grain—making it a preferred choice for high-end furniture, cabinetry, and architectural millwork. It offers many of the same qualities as mahogany, but with increased availability and sustainability. Here’s a breakdown of its benefits and best use cases:
Mahogany-Like Appearance: Sipo has a rich reddish-brown color that deepens with age, often featuring a fine, even grain that closely resembles genuine mahogany.
Excellent Workability: Machines, sands, and glues well. It takes finishes beautifully, allowing for smooth, refined surfaces with minimal effort.
Stable and Predictable: Once properly dried, Sipo is very stable and resists warping and movement—ideal for precision joinery and detailed craftsmanship.
Durable and Strong: Offers good resistance to wear, moisture, and decay, making it suitable for both interior and protected exterior applications.
Sustainable Alternative: More readily available and responsibly harvested than some traditional tropical hardwoods, making it a smart option for eco-conscious builds.
Fine Furniture: Commonly used in high-end tables, chairs, cabinetry, and shelving where a smooth, consistent finish is essential.
Architectural Millwork: Ideal for paneling, moldings, doors, and interior trim in residential and commercial luxury spaces.
Musical Instruments: Occasionally used in guitar construction for its warm tone, stability, and visual similarity to mahogany.
Veneers and Plywood: Sliced into veneers for use in cabinetry, interior doors, and decorative panels where uniformity and elegance are desired.
Boat Interiors and Protected Exterior Woodwork: With proper sealing, Sipo can be used in marine interiors or outdoor projects with limited exposure to the elements.
Sucupira, also known as Brazilian Chestnut, is a dense and durable hardwood native to South America. Recognized for its rich, chocolate-brown color and bold grain patterns, Sucupira is a popular choice for heavy-use environments where both strength and style are essential. Its natural resilience and striking appearance make it ideal for flooring, cabinetry, and custom woodwork. Here’s a breakdown of its benefits and best use cases:
Rich, Dark Appearance: Sucupira ranges from medium to dark brown, often with contrasting streaks or a golden shimmer that adds depth and character to the grain.
Exceptional Hardness and Strength: Very dense and tough, Sucupira holds up extremely well to heavy wear, impact, and moisture exposure—making it a long-lasting choice for demanding applications.
Natural Durability: Highly resistant to rot, insects, and decay, even in humid or high-traffic conditions. Great for both residential and commercial environments.
Textured Grain Pattern: Features a coarse, open grain with bold character that makes it visually dynamic, even in large-scale installations.
Long-Term Stability: With proper drying and installation, Sucupira maintains its shape and structure over time, minimizing movement and surface issues.
Hardwood Flooring: A top-tier choice for heavy-use flooring in homes, offices, and commercial settings thanks to its strength and resistance to wear.
High-End Furniture: Ideal for bold, custom furniture pieces such as dining tables, dressers, and cabinetry where a rich, earthy tone is desired.
Architectural Woodwork: Suitable for doors, wall panels, and stair components where strength and visual weight are equally important.
Decking and Outdoor Use (with Sealing): When properly treated, Sucupira can be used in protected exterior applications like covered decks or porches.
Veneers and Millwork: Used in fine interior design for cabinetry, wall coverings, and accent pieces that showcase its dramatic, textured grain.
Tigerwood, also known as Goncalo Alves, is a striking exotic hardwood native to Central and South America. It’s instantly recognizable for its dramatic contrast of reddish-brown tones streaked with dark brown or black striping—giving it a bold, tiger-like appearance. With its combination of visual appeal and natural durability, Tigerwood is a favorite for both luxury interiors and weather-resistant exteriors. Here’s a breakdown of its benefits and best use cases:
Bold, Striking Appearance: Known for its rich reddish-brown base color and dramatic dark striping, Tigerwood creates a visually powerful impact in both modern and traditional designs.
High Durability: Dense and naturally resistant to rot, insects, and moisture, making it a strong performer in both indoor and outdoor applications.
Excellent Hardness: Offers impressive resistance to dents, scratches, and wear—ideal for high-traffic areas or structural applications where longevity matters.
Smooth Workability: Machines well with sharp tools and finishes to a high polish. Its dense grain accepts oils and sealers beautifully, which enhance its color and grain definition.
Long-Term Stability: Once dried properly, Tigerwood holds its shape well and is less prone to warping or shifting, even in varying climates.
Hardwood Flooring: A premium choice for high-traffic interior floors, offering both exceptional wear resistance and head-turning aesthetics.
Exterior Decking: Perfect for decks, patios, and outdoor walkways where weather resistance and style are equally important.
Accent Furniture: Ideal for custom pieces such as tabletops, cabinets, and shelves where the grain can be showcased as a centerpiece.
Wall Paneling and Trim: Adds depth and warmth to feature walls, staircases, or millwork in upscale residential and commercial spaces.
Turned Objects and Décor: Great for smaller craft items like bowls, knife handles, and pens where its bold figure can shine in a polished finish.
Teak is one of the most renowned hardwoods in the world, prized for its unmatched weather resistance, golden-brown color, and rich natural oils. Native to Southeast Asia and widely cultivated on sustainable plantations, Teak has long been a top choice for outdoor furniture, boatbuilding, and high-end architectural applications. Its balance of beauty, strength, and longevity makes it a premium material across industries. Here’s a breakdown of its benefits and best use cases:
Natural Weather Resistance: Teak contains a high concentration of natural oils and silica, making it extremely resistant to moisture, decay, and insect damage—perfect for outdoor use without chemical treatments.
Rich, Golden Color: Fresh teak has a warm golden-brown hue that weathers beautifully to a soft silver-gray patina over time if left untreated. Either finish brings an elegant, timeless look.
Exceptional Durability: Teak stands up to decades of use in both indoor and outdoor settings. It’s highly resistant to warping, cracking, and splitting, even in harsh environments.
Smooth Workability: Despite its oily nature, Teak machines and sands well with sharp tools. It finishes smoothly and can be left raw, oiled, or sealed depending on the desired look.
Low Maintenance: Requires very little upkeep. Occasional cleaning and optional oiling are all that’s needed to maintain its appearance and performance.
Outdoor Furniture: The gold standard for patio sets, benches, loungers, and dining tables thanks to its longevity and resistance to the elements.
Boatbuilding and Marine Applications: Commonly used for decking, trim, and cabinetry on yachts and boats due to its durability in wet conditions.
High-End Flooring: A luxurious choice for both residential and commercial floors, especially in spaces that demand moisture resistance like kitchens or bathrooms.
Architectural Millwork: Ideal for window frames, doors, and wall paneling where a warm, refined appearance and long-term performance are needed.
Bathroom and Spa Design: Perfect for vanities, shower slats, and bath accessories where water exposure is constant and aesthetics matter.
Wenge is a bold, dark hardwood native to Central and West Africa, known for its dramatic chocolate-brown to nearly black color and coarse, linear grain. With its high density, durability, and unmistakable appearance, Wenge is often used in modern and luxury design where strength and visual impact are key. Whether used in fine furniture or sleek architectural accents, Wenge delivers unmatched richness and performance. Here’s a breakdown of its benefits and best use cases:
Deep, Distinctive Color: Naturally dark brown to black with subtle reddish or purplish undertones and occasional lighter streaks, Wenge brings a dramatic, high-contrast aesthetic to any project.
Exceptional Hardness and Strength: Extremely dense and tough, Wenge resists scratches, dents, and wear, making it ideal for high-traffic or heavy-use areas.
Durable and Long-Lasting: Offers excellent resistance to moisture, insects, and general decay, especially when properly sealed or finished.
Textural Appeal: Its coarse, straight grain adds a tactile, natural texture that enhances its bold color and gives projects a sense of depth and weight.
Sound Properties: Known for its acoustic qualities, Wenge is often chosen in instrument-making for its tonal clarity and strength.
Luxury Flooring: An ideal choice for premium residential or commercial flooring where durability and bold color are both priorities.
High-End Furniture: Perfect for tables, credenzas, shelving, and cabinetry where its dark tone and unique texture serve as a focal point.
Architectural Accents: Commonly used in trim, paneling, stair parts, and interior details in modern or minimalist design schemes.
Musical Instruments: Frequently used in guitars and basses for fretboards, necks, and bodies where a dense, stable tonewood is desired.
Turned and Carved Objects: Suitable for high-end pens, knife handles, and other small goods where its weight, color, and polishability create a premium feel.
Yellowheart, also known as Euxylophora paraensis, is a vibrant and durable hardwood native to Brazil. Famous for its unmistakable lemon-yellow color and smooth, uniform grain, Yellowheart brings a bold, modern look to fine woodworking projects. It’s a favorite among furniture makers, turners, and designers seeking natural color without dyes or stains. Here’s a breakdown of its benefits and best use cases:
Vivid Natural Color: True to its name, Yellowheart has a bright, golden-yellow hue that remains consistent throughout the board. With proper finishing, the color holds well over time with minimal fading.
Smooth, Uniform Grain: Features a fine to medium texture with minimal variation, making it easy to machine and polish to a sleek, modern finish.
High Density and Strength: Dense and hard, Yellowheart offers excellent durability, with strong resistance to wear, impact, and surface damage.
Excellent Workability: Machines and sands well with sharp tools, glues easily, and takes a clean finish—ideal for detailed joinery and crisp lines.
Eye-Catching Contrast: Often used alongside darker woods like Wenge or Purpleheart for striking visual contrast in mixed-species projects.
Accent Furniture: Ideal for modern tables, cabinets, and shelving where bold color and clean lines are part of the design aesthetic.
Inlays and Decorative Accents: Frequently used in cutting boards, boxes, and furniture accents where natural color contrast is desired.
Turned Projects: A great option for pens, bowls, handles, and small turned items that highlight its vibrant color and fine grain.
Musical Instruments: Occasionally used for electric guitar bodies, trim, or decorative elements where visual impact is important.
Custom Wood Art and Veneers: Used in artistic panels, marquetry, or high-end veneers that showcase its unique and vibrant tone.
Zebrawood is an exotic hardwood native to West Africa, instantly recognizable for its dramatic striped appearance that resembles the pattern of a zebra. With alternating light and dark bands of grain, Zebrawood adds bold character to any project and is often used where visual impact is the priority. It’s strong, dense, and surprisingly versatile, making it a favorite in both artistic and functional woodworking. Here’s a breakdown of its benefits and best use cases:
Striking Grain Pattern: Known for its high-contrast stripes of pale tan and dark brown or black, Zebrawood delivers a bold, graphic look that makes every board stand out.
High Density and Strength: Zebrawood is hard and heavy, offering excellent durability and wear resistance, even in high-use environments.
Good Workability (with Sharp Tools): While its interlocking grain can be tricky, it machines and sands well with sharp blades and produces a smooth finish with care.
Distinctive Texture: The coarse, open grain adds a natural, tactile quality to its already eye-catching visuals, especially when finished with oils or clear coats.
Unique Visual Impact: Its bold aesthetic makes it a go-to wood for designers, builders, and artists looking to create pieces that stand apart.
Statement Furniture: Perfect for tables, cabinet doors, drawer fronts, and shelving where its vivid grain becomes a design feature.
Decorative Veneers: Commonly used in high-end cabinetry, paneling, and automotive interiors to deliver upscale visual appeal.
Musical Instruments: Used for guitar tops, backs, and other components where a bold look and solid tonal properties are desired.
Turned and Carved Projects: Great for bowls, pens, and luxury accessories that benefit from a dynamic and memorable appearance.
Architectural Accents: Suitable for inlays, wall treatments, or stair components in modern, eclectic, or high-contrast design environments.
Discount Lumber also maintains an expansive selection of domestic hardwoods. Our selection of exotic lumber include:
Discount Lumber readily stocks all of the materials you need to craft a beautiful butcher block cutting boards and countertops. Selections include:
Upgrade your floors with one of the beautiful options available at Discount Lumber. We offer a wide variety of species, finishes, and sizes to meet your needs.
Complete your home with elaborate custom moulding. Whether you’re looking for casing, architectural, or pre-primed moulding, Discount Lumber has you covered.
Craft custom butcher block cutting boards and countertops from premium materials provided by Discount Lumber.
Leave the heavy lifting to us. Our shop offers sanding and planing services so you can spend more time building your project.
Address
Phone:
952-300-8992
Email:
discountlumberoutlet@gmail.com
Hours
Site Design by JBC