Philippine Teak
Scientific name: Tectona philippinensis
Overview
Philippine Teak is a rare and highly localized hardwood species native to the Philippines. While it belongs to the same genus as true Teak, it differs significantly in size, availability, and commercial use.
Unlike traditional Teak, Philippine Teak is not widely harvested or traded and is primarily known for its ecological importance rather than its use in woodworking. It is considered one of the most restricted and least accessible members of the teak family, making it far more significant from a conservation standpoint than a commercial one.
Quick Facts
- Common Name: Philippine Teak
- Scientific Name: Tectona philippinensis
- Region: Asian Hardwoods (Philippines)
- Tree Size: 20–50 ft tall, smaller trunk diameter
- Average Dried Weight: ~35–45 lbs/ft³ (560–720 kg/m³)
- Janka Hardness: Not widely documented (estimated moderate)
- Color: Pale brown to light golden brown
- Grain: Straight
- Texture: Medium
Identification Characteristics
Philippine Teak can resemble true Teak in general tone but is typically lighter in color and less uniform due to its smaller growth form.
Key identification traits include:
- Light brown to golden-brown heartwood
- Straight grain structure
- Moderate, natural luster
- Smaller board sizes due to limited tree size
- Less oily appearance than traditional Teak
Working Properties
Due to its rarity, Philippine Teak is not commonly worked, and detailed machining data is limited. However, its general properties are expected to fall within the moderate hardwood range.
- Moderate workability
- Likely easier to machine than dense tropical hardwoods
- Accepts finishes and adhesives well
- Moderate durability
- Limited real-world performance data due to restricted use
Safety Note
No widely documented adverse reactions, though standard precautions should always be taken when working with hardwood dust.
Common Uses
Philippine Teak has very limited commercial use due to its protected status and rarity.
- Primarily not used in commercial woodworking
- Occasionally studied for botanical and conservation purposes
- Rare specialty or research applications
Sustainability & Notes
Philippine Teak is considered a highly threatened species and is protected within its native range. Habitat loss and limited geographic distribution have significantly impacted its population.
It is not a commercially viable species, and any harvesting is heavily restricted or prohibited. This species serves as an important example of why sustainable forestry and conservation efforts are critical in tropical regions.
Comparative Notes & Related Species
Teak – Larger, more durable, and widely used globally for exterior and marine applications
Dahat Teak – Another lesser-known teak species with broader availability than Philippine Teak
Cumaru – Often called Brazilian Teak, but significantly harder and not botanically related
Related Guides
How to Identify Wood by End Grain Patterns
Learn how to identify wood species by examining pores, rays, and growth rings through the end grain—the most accurate method for wood identification.
Understanding CITES & Protected Species
Important for recognizing restricted and endangered hardwoods
Wood Density & Hardness Explained (Janka Scale)
Provides context for comparing lesser-known species
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
Philippine Teak is not a practical species for most woodworking applications, but it holds significant value for collectors focused on rarity and botanical importance.
As one of the least accessible members of the teak genus, it represents a unique addition to a collection, particularly for those documenting species diversity and conservation status. Due to its protected status, legitimate samples are extremely rare.
Video Overview
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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:
HORUSDY 8-Pack Bar Clamps for Woodworking – https://amzn.to/4cx7iHb
Titebond III Ultimate Wood Glue – https://amzn.to/4sS0mZO
CRAFT RESIN Crystal Clear Epoxy Resin Kit – https://amzn.to/4w7oj2v
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