Cameroon Timber Hub
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Sapele timber grain

Sapele

Entandrophragma cylindricum

  • Primary hardwood
Sapele is a medium-density reddish-brown hardwood and one of Cameroon's flagship export species. Its interlocked grain produces the ribbon or pencil-stripe figure prized in quartersawn boards and sliced veneer, and the wood darkens attractively with age. It is stronger and denser than true mahogany while remaining workable, though the interlocked grain can tear on planing. Widely used for windows, doors, furniture and boat interiors.
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Classification

Commercial category
Primary / Principal Hardwood
Botanical family
Meliaceae
Density (air-dry)
600–700 kg/m³
Durability class
Class 3 (Moderately Durable)
Janka hardness
5,700 N
Trade names
Sapelli, Sapele mahogany, Aboudikro
Local names
Sapelli
Regions harvested
East, South, Centre

Commercial category is a market grouping used in the timber trade. It is not a regulatory or legal classification.

EUDR risk assessment

EU Deforestation Regulation risk for Sapele is not yet assessed on this platform — consult current EU Deforestation Regulation guidance directly.

Properties

Grain
Interlocked, often ribbon-figured
Odour
Cedar-like when freshly cut
Colour
Medium to dark reddish brown
Texture
Fine and uniform

Typical uses

  • Windows and exterior joinery
  • Doors and staircases
  • Fine furniture and cabinetmaking
  • Decorative sliced veneer
  • Musical instruments

Verified exporters handling Sapele

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