Iroko (hardwood)

Iroko is a hardwood from tropical Africa. It is one of the woods sometimes referred to as African Teak, although it is not always suitable as a substitute for teak.

In much of the literature on this timber the names of the trees that yields it are given as "Chlorophora excelsa" and "Chlorophora regia".

The wood is used for a variety of purposes including boat-building, domestic flooring and furniture. From the late 90s, it was used as part of the txalaparta, a Basque musical instrument constructed of wooden boards, due to its lively sound.

Colour:- Initially yellow but darkens to a richer brown over time.

Advantages:- Similar appearance to teak and less expensive but is not as durable.

Dense graining and high oil content make it quite durable for external use. Unlike teak but in common with most other timber, Iroko requires regular treatment with oil or varnish when used outdoors.

External links

* [http://www2.fpl.fs.fed.us/Techsheets/Chudnoff/African/htmlDocs_africa/Chlorophoraexcelsa.html Technical fact sheet] - from the USDA's Forest Products Laboratory.
* [http://www.exotichardwoods-africa.com/iroko.htm Iroko (Chlorophora excelsa)] at Exotic Hardwoods of Africa