Andaman Padauk
Scientific name: Pterocarpus dalbergioides
Overview
Andaman Padauk is a premium tropical hardwood native to the Andaman Islands in the Indian Ocean. Closely related to other padauk species, this wood is highly valued for its rich reddish-orange coloration, durability, and attractive grain patterns. The species has historically been used in fine furniture, cabinetry, decorative woodworking, and high-end construction applications. Its combination of strength, stability, and visual appeal has made it one of the more respected hardwoods from the region.
Quick Facts
- Common Name: Andaman Padauk
- Scientific Name: Pterocarpus dalbergioides
- Region: Asian Hardwoods
- Tree Size: 80–120 ft tall, 3–5 ft trunk diameter
- Average Dried Weight: 50 lbs/ft³ (800 kg/m³)
- Janka Hardness: 1,970 lbf
- Color: Golden orange to reddish brown
- Grain: Straight to interlocked
- Texture: Medium to coarse
Identification Characteristics
Andaman Padauk is recognized for its warm orange to reddish-brown coloration and attractive natural luster. Freshly cut surfaces may appear brighter orange before gradually darkening with age and exposure. The grain can range from straight to lightly interlocked, often producing decorative ribbon figure on quartered surfaces.
Key identification traits include:
- Orange to reddish-brown coloration
- Natural luster
- Occasional ribbon stripe figure
- Medium to coarse texture
Working Properties
Andaman Padauk generally machines well despite its density. The wood cuts cleanly with sharp tools and responds well to sanding and finishing. Interlocked grain may occasionally produce tearout in figured sections.
- Machines well overall
- Can develop tearout in interlocked areas
- Turns and sands smoothly
- Takes a polished finish very well
Safety Note
Wood dust may cause skin, eye, or respiratory irritation in sensitive individuals. Proper dust collection and respiratory protection are recommended.
Common Uses
Andaman Padauk is widely used in decorative and structural woodworking applications.
- Fine furniture
- Cabinetry
- Flooring
- Turned objects
- Decorative veneers
- Boatbuilding
Sustainability & Notes
This species has historically faced pressure from overharvesting and habitat limitations within its native range. Availability can be limited, and responsible sourcing is strongly recommended.
Comparative Notes & Related Species
Asian Padauk – A related padauk species with similar coloration and woodworking properties.
Narra – Another Asian hardwood valued for decorative figure and furniture applications.
Burmese Rosewood – A premium Asian species known for rich coloration and luxury woodworking use.
Related Guides
Best Woods for Furniture Making – Explains why durable and stable hardwoods are favored for high-end furniture projects.
Wood Grain Patterns Explained – Covers ribbon figure, interlocked grain, and decorative wood appearance.
Moisture Content & Long-Term Stability – Explains how tropical hardwoods behave over time in changing environments.
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
Andaman Padauk is prized by collectors for its rich coloration and historical significance within tropical hardwood markets. Well-figured boards displaying ribbon stripe figure or strong orange coloration are especially desirable for collections and custom woodworking.
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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.
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