Tulipwood
Scientific name: Dalbergia decipularis
Overview
Tulipwood is a striking South American hardwood known for its pale yellow to pinkish background highlighted by vivid red, purple, or orange streaks. Native to Brazil, it is one of the more visually distinctive species within the Dalbergia genus.
Due to its rarity, density, and vibrant coloration, Tulipwood is primarily used in fine woodworking, inlay, and decorative applications where visual impact is a priority.
Quick Facts
- Common Name: Tulipwood
- Scientific Name: Dalbergia decipularis
- Region: South American Hardwoods (Brazil)
- Tree Size: 30–50 ft tall, 1–2 ft trunk diameter
- Average Dried Weight: 60 lbs/ft³ (960 kg/m³)
- Janka Hardness: 2,790 lbf
- Color: Pale yellow to pink with red and purple streaks
- Grain: Straight to slightly interlocked
- Texture: Fine
Identification Characteristics
Tulipwood is easily identified by its bright base color and dramatic streaking, often appearing almost striped or marbled.
Key identification traits include:
- Pale yellow to pinkish background
- Red, purple, or orange streaks
- Fine texture with smooth surface
- High contrast figure
Working Properties
Tulipwood is dense and can be somewhat difficult to work, but produces excellent results in fine applications.
- Moderately difficult to machine
- Turns well
- Gluing can be challenging due to natural oils
- Takes a very high polish
- Finishes to a smooth, glossy surface
Safety Note
Dust may cause irritation or allergic reactions. Proper protective equipment is recommended.
Common Uses
Tulipwood is used in fine and decorative woodworking where appearance is critical.
- Inlay and marquetry
- Fine furniture accents
- Turned objects
- Musical instruments
- Luxury decorative items
Sustainability & Notes
Tulipwood (Dalbergia decipularis) is listed under CITES Appendix II. Trade is regulated, and responsible sourcing with proper documentation is required.
Comparative Notes & Related Species
Kingwood – Similar genus and density, but darker purple coloration.
Cocobolo – Another Dalbergia species with rich coloration and oily properties.
Brazilian Rosewood – Larger-scale use with darker tones and broader grain patterns.
Related Guides
Understanding CITES & Protected Species
Important for regulated hardwoods like Tulipwood.
Finishing Oils vs Polyurethane on Exotic Species
Enhances vibrant color and figure.
Wood Identification
Helpful for distinguishing highly figured exotic hardwoods.
Compare Wood Properties
See how this species ranks in density and hardness using our Wood Density & Janka Hardness Chart. You can also explore Hardest Woods, Softest Woods, and Most Dense Woods for quick comparisons.
Collector Notes
Tulipwood is highly prized by collectors due to its vivid coloration and rarity. Pieces with strong, contrasting streaks are especially desirable, particularly for small-scale decorative and showcase applications.
Share Your Photos of This Species
Do you have lumber, wood samples, tree photographs, woodworking projects, furniture, carvings, turnings, musical instruments, or other items made from this species?
Exotic Woods of the World welcomes photographs from woodworkers, collectors, sawyers, researchers, and wood enthusiasts around the world. Selected submissions may be featured on this page and throughout our website to help document and showcase real-world examples of this species.
When submitting photos, please include the common name, scientific name (if known), a brief description, and any information you would like us to share with the image.
Wood Sample Collection
This species is part of an ongoing effort to document and preserve wood samples from around the world.
Learn more about contributing to the collection:
Resources
Authoritative botanical and forestry references used in compiling information about this species include:
• USDA Forest Service – Wood Handbook: Wood as an Engineering Material
https://www.fpl.fs.usda.gov/products/publications/
• The Wood Database – Global reference for wood identification, physical properties, and woodworking characteristics
https://www.wood-database.com/
• Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew – Plants of the World Online – Botanical taxonomy and species distribution database
https://powo.science.kew.org/
• International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN Red List) – Global conservation status assessments
https://www.iucnredlist.org/
• Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) – International trade regulations for protected plant species
https://cites.org/
Additional forestry publications, academic research papers, and regional timber studies may also be referenced where available.
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Availability & Where to Buy
Exotic hardwood availability can vary significantly depending on region, sustainability regulations, and supplier inventory.
As this archive grows, recommended suppliers and specialty wood retailers will be listed here to help woodworkers locate responsibly sourced material.
Lumber Suppliers:
Availability varies — see the Where to Buy Exotic Woods page for current sources.
Related Tools & Products:
Availability varies — see the Where to Buy Exotic Woods page for current sources.
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