Leopardwood
Leopardwood, scientifically known as Roupala spp. (primarily Roupala montana or Roupala brasiliensis), is an exotic hardwood native to Central and South America, including Brazil and surrounding regions. It is renowned for its dramatic "leopard spot" figuring, created by large medullary rays that produce a distinctive flecked pattern against a reddish-brown background.
Appearance and Characteristics
Leopardwood features a medium to dark reddish-brown heartwood with prominent dark flecks or spots that resemble a leopard's coat—most pronounced in quartersawn material. The figuring gives a three-dimensional effect before sanding, due to slightly raised rays. It has an interlocked grain, medium to coarse texture, and natural luster. The wood is dense and heavy, typically weighing around 55 pounds per cubic foot (880 kg/m³) with a Janka hardness of approximately 2,150 lbf.
Workability
Due to its high density and interlocking grain, Leopardwood can be moderately difficult to work, with a tendency for tearout during planing or machining. Sharp tools and carbide blades are recommended to minimize issues. It glues well, takes stains evenly (though pre-testing is advised due to density), and finishes to a high polish, beautifully highlighting the dramatic figure.
Uses in Woodworking
Leopardwood is prized for projects where its bold, spotted figure can shine, including:
-
Furniture Accents: Ideal for tabletops, drawer fronts, cabinet doors, and inlays where the dramatic pattern adds exotic contrast.
-
Turnings: Popular for bowls, pens, bottle stoppers, knife handles, and pool cues due to its density and striking visual depth.
-
Veneer & Marquetry: Frequently sliced into veneer for high-end paneling, marquetry, and decorative surfaces.
-
Small Specialty Items: Used in jewelry boxes, humidors, musical instruments, and decorative objects for its eye-catching appeal.
-
Flooring & Paneling: Occasionally employed for accent flooring or wall paneling to create a luxurious, textured look.
Durability
Leopardwood offers good overall durability:
-
Indoor Use: Highly suitable for interior applications; dense and stable, resisting wear when properly finished.
-
Outdoor Use: Not recommended for exterior exposure without heavy protection; moderate natural resistance to decay.
-
Bug/Insect and Rot Resistance: Rated as durable to very durable against decay; good resistance to insects.
Leopardwood’s bold, three-dimensional figuring and robust density make it a standout choice for woodworkers seeking exotic, high-impact visuals in their projects.
VARIATIONS AND OPTIONS
All lumber now ships surfaced on 2 sides, and ripped on 1 edge at a minimum. Surfacing is done to a 1/16th over nominal (+- .030). Also there is an option for an s4s product at a premium price. S4S widths will be within 1/16th of an inch of stated widths.
4/4 will be surfaced to 13/16ths.
5/4 will be surfaced to 1 and 1/16th.
6/4 will be surfaced to 1 and 5/16ths.
8/4 will be surfaced to 1 and 13/16ths.
10/4 will be surfaced to 2 and 5/16ths.
16/4 will be surfaced to 2 and 13/16ths.