Iroko / African Teak (Chlorophora excelsa)

Characteristics Light Heavy Weight: Soft Hard Hardness: Fine Coarse Texture: Easy Difficult Working: Easy Difficult Finishing: Chart Help

Iroko / African Teak Characteristics

Since Iroko has good weathering properties, it's a decent substitute for teak and even shares a similar color range. Medium to coarse texture with an interlocking grain that often produces interesting patterns. Open pores requires filling for a smooth finish. Works pretty easily with both power and hand tools.

Color Range

Color varies from pale golden brown to dark chocolate brown.

Other Names

African Teak, Moreira, Abang, Doussie, Mvule, Iroko, Mvuli, Kambala, Odum

Some Typical Uses

Boat building and marine work, furniture and cabinet work.

What's the Tree Like?

The tree is quite large and may reach 160 feet in height. The bole is straight, cylindrical, and may be clear of branches to 80 feet. Logs usually average about 30'' diameter.

Iroko / African Teak grows in

Primarily Ivory Coast and Cameroons