Ipe, Lapacho

Handroanthus spp, Tabebuia spp.

Trade Name: Ipe, Lapacho

Scientific Name: Handroanthus spp. (formerly known as Tabebuia spp.)

Common Name(s) in Different Countries:

  • United States: Ipe, Brazilian Walnut

  • Canada: Ipe, Lapacho

  • United Kingdom: Ipe, Brazilian Walnut

  • France: Ipe, Lapacho

  • French Guyana: Bois d'ipé

  • Australia: Ipe, Brazilian Walnut

  • Japan: イペ (Ipe)

  • Taiwan: 伊比欄 (Yī bǐ lán)

  • China: 伊佩 (Yī pèi)

  • South Korea: 이페 (Ipe)

  • Thailand: ไอเป (Ipe)

  • India: आइपे (Āipē)

  • Suriname: Ipe, Lapacho

  • Guyana: Ipe, Lapacho

  • Brasil: Ipe, Lapacho

  • Germany: Ipe, Brasilianisches Walnussholz

  • Italy: Ipe, Noce Brasiliano

  • Portugal: Ipê, Pau d'Arco

  • Peru: Ipe, Lapacho

  • Bolivia: Ipe, Lapacho

  • Panama: Ipe, Lapacho

Growing Areas: Ipe/Lapacho trees are native to the rainforests of South America, primarily found in countries such as Brazil, Bolivia, and Peru.

Distribution: This species is distributed throughout the Amazon Basin and adjacent regions, where it grows in dense rainforests and tropical savannas.

Tree Size: Ipe/Lapacho trees can reach heights of 100-130 feet (30-40 meters) with trunk diameters ranging from 2-4 feet (0.6-1.2 meters).

Average Dried Weight: 60-75 lbs/ft³ (960-1,200 kg/m³)

Specific Gravity (Basic, 12% MC): 0.85-1.10

Janka Hardness: 3,680 lbf (16,380 N)

Modulus of Rupture: 25,660 lbf/in² (177.0 MPa)

Elastic Modulus: 3,160,000 lbf/in² (21.8 GPa)

Crushing Strength: 13,600 lbf/in² (93.8 MPa)

Shrinkage:

  • Radial: 6.1%

  • Tangential: 8.4%

  • Volumetric: 14.6%

  • T/R Ratio: 1.4

Color/Appearance: Ipe/Lapacho heartwood ranges from olive brown to dark brown with subtle yellow and olive undertones. The sapwood is yellowish-white and clearly demarcated from the heartwood.

Grain/Texture: Ipe/Lapacho typically has a straight to irregular grain with a fine to medium texture. It has a natural luster that enhances its visual appeal.

Rot Resistance: Ipe/Lapacho is highly resistant to decay, termites, and fungal attacks, making it suitable for outdoor applications such as decking, siding, and outdoor furniture.

Workability: Ipe/Lapacho is extremely dense and challenging to work with, particularly with hand tools. It has a blunting effect on cutting edges, and pre-drilling is recommended for fasteners. Despite its hardness, it finishes well to a smooth surface.

Odor: Ipe/Lapacho may have a mild, cedar-like scent when freshly cut.

Allergies/Toxicity: Ipe/Lapacho may cause skin and respiratory irritation in some individuals. Proper dust collection and protective equipment should be used to minimize exposure.

Pricing/Availability: Ipe/Lapacho is considered a premium hardwood and is typically available at a moderate to high price point. Its availability may vary depending on the region and demand.

Sustainability: While Ipe/Lapacho is not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, sustainable harvesting practices should be followed to ensure the long-term health of forest ecosystems.

Common Uses: Ipe/Lapacho is commonly used for decking, flooring, outdoor furniture, heavy construction, and boatbuilding. Its durability and natural resistance to decay make it a popular choice for outdoor applications in harsh environments.

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Angelique