Afromosia

[Pericopsis elata]

Sometimes spelled “Afrormosia,” this exotic West African hardwood not only bears a striking resemblance to Teak, it also shares similar working and mechanical properties to the Tectona grandis species. So, despite not being even closely related to genuine Teak, Afromosia is sometimes referred to as “African Teak.” And even more frequently, it’s successfully used as a more price-conscious substitute for Teak.

Afromosia is known for a beautiful, overall color that ranges from yellow gold to a warm brown. And while its heartwood has an occassional reddish or olive hue — which tends to darken to a deep, rich walnut color over time — its clearly demarcated, narrow sapwood is typically a pale yellow. The grain of Afromosia is usually straight, though can be interlocked, and it has a fine, uniform texture and good luster. 

A first-class wood for veneer, flooring, furniture, and boatbuilding, Afromosia  has been a longtime favorite in Europe for high-grade commercial and residential construction.