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Afrormosia (Pericopsis elata) Hardwood
Afrormosia (Pericopsis elata), often called African Teak, is one of Africa's most prized hardwoods. It earned the 'African Teak' nickname because it closely matches Burmese Teak in appearance, durabil...
Janka Hardness
1,560 lbf
Durability
Class 1
Lifespan
40-60 years
Density
43 lbs/ft³
What Is Afrormosia Wood?
Afrormosia (Pericopsis elata), often called African Teak, is one of Africa's most prized hardwoods. It earned the 'African Teak' nickname because it closely matches Burmese Teak in appearance, durability, and performance — but at a more accessible price point. It is rated Class 1 durable, the highest rating for natural decay resistance.
With a Janka hardness of 1,560 lbf, Afrormosia is harder than Teak (1,070 lbf) and offers exceptional resistance to rot, decay, and marine borers. Its golden-brown to dark brown heartwood resembles teak closely and develops a beautiful patina over time.
Afrormosia is highly valued for marine construction, exterior joinery, high-end furniture, and flooring. It is dimensionally stable, works well with both hand and power tools, and takes finish beautifully. Due to its CITES Appendix II listing, supply is controlled and pricing reflects its scarcity.
Key Facts
- Class 1 durability — the highest natural decay resistance rating
- Closely resembles Burmese Teak in appearance and performance
- Harder than Teak at 1,560 lbf Janka
- Excellent resistance to marine borers and insects
- CITES Appendix II listed — controlled harvest ensures sustainability
- Prized for marine construction, exterior joinery, and fine furniture
Why Choose Afrormosia?
Exceptional Durability
Class 1 rated — one of the most naturally durable African hardwoods available
Teak Alternative
Matches teak in appearance and durability at a lower price point
Marine Grade
Excellent resistance to marine borers, making it ideal for boat building and waterfront structures
Dimensional Stability
Very stable with minimal movement after drying — ideal for precision joinery
Beautiful Aging
Golden-brown color darkens to a rich warm brown with a lustrous natural sheen
Good Workability
Machines well with standard carbide tooling despite its density
Common Applications
Afrormosia is well-suited for a range of interior and exterior applications.
Marine Construction
Boat building, dock decking, and waterfront structures
Exterior Joinery
Windows, doors, and architectural trim requiring Class 1 durability
Fine Furniture
High-end indoor and outdoor furniture
Flooring
Premium hardwood flooring for residential and commercial spaces
Decking
Premium exterior decking for moderate-traffic applications
Structural Timber
Posts, beams, and structural applications requiring long-term durability
Afrormosia by Application
Learn how Afrormosia performs across different project types.
Afrormosia Marine & Waterfront
Afrormosia's Class 1 durability and natural resistance to marine borers make it an exceptional choice for boat building, dock decking, and waterfront structures. It has been used in European marine construction for decades as a teak alternative, delivering comparable performance at a more accessible price. The wood's dimensional stability ensures tight-fitting joints even through wet-dry cycles.
Explore all marine & waterfront optionsAfrormosia Exterior Joinery
Afrormosia excels in precision exterior joinery — windows, doors, and architectural trim that must withstand decades of weather exposure. Its Class 1 durability eliminates the need for chemical preservatives, and its natural golden-brown color provides a premium aesthetic. European architects have specified Afrormosia for high-end fenestration for over 50 years.
Explore all exterior joinery optionsInstallation & Working Tips
- Pre-drill all fastener holes to prevent splitting
- Use carbide-tipped blades for clean cuts
- Contains yellow deposits that may stain surrounding materials during rain — consider this for adjacent surfaces
- Allow 7-14 days for acclimation before installation
- Use stainless steel or bronze fasteners for all exterior applications
- Sand progressively to 180-220 grit for best finish adhesion
For complete guidance, see our installation guide and custom milling services.
Maintenance & Care
Afrormosia's Class 1 durability means it requires very little maintenance for structural integrity. Finishing is primarily cosmetic — to maintain color.
Exterior Use
Apply UV-protective oil 1-2 times per year to maintain the golden-brown color. Without treatment, Afrormosia weathers to an attractive silver-gray while remaining structurally sound for decades.
Interior Use
Clean with mild soap and water. Apply penetrating oil or varnish every 3-5 years to maintain luster. The wood develops a beautiful natural patina over time.
Marine Use
For boat applications, follow marine finishing protocols. Afrormosia performs excellently in marine environments with or without finish, though varnish preserves the aesthetic.
Important Considerations
CITES Listed
Pericopsis elata is listed under CITES Appendix II, meaning international trade is regulated. Ensure proper documentation when purchasing.
Yellow Leaching
Can leach yellow deposits when exposed to rain, potentially staining adjacent light-colored surfaces. This diminishes over time.
Limited Supply
CITES restrictions and controlled harvesting mean supply is limited and pricing reflects scarcity.
Frequently Asked Questions About Afrormosia
Quick answers to common questions
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