Exotic Padauk Hardwood

 Pterocarpus soyauxii

Sometimes known as Vermillion, Padauk, actually pronounced “pa-dook,” is sought after for its unique red tone, and prized for its strength and durability.  Padouk grows as a thin towering tree, at 120 feet tall, and 7 feet wide this particular variety hails from Africa. Its heartwood can be a pale orange or a deep brown-red color with a typically straight grain and natural luster. The unique red tone will darken over time. Padauk has been coveted throughout history.  King Solomon chose this wood for the pillars of his temple in the 10th century BC.  Royal woodcrafters fashioned cups and chalices from which King Louis the 16th would drink.  Royalty at the time believed the resulting yellow water from the bleeding wood to be a potion with medicinal properties.  A century later Padauk would be used as a Veneer known as Amboyna to adorn Empire style furniture.  Today it can be seen in instruments, as the wood produces excellent tonal properties as well as in high end cabinetry, furniture, flooring and fine turnery such as knife and tool handles.