The Species:

Flooring Trade Name: Patagonian Walnut

Botanical Name: Tabebuia, heptaphylla

Lumber Name: Lapacho

Grows In: Paraguay & Southern Brazil

Products / Walnut, Patagonian

Description:

Patagonian Walnut is in the same family as Brazilian Walnut / Ipe. It is a lighter brown color than Brazilian Walnut and offers golden/tan highlights. It also offers more rowed grain/curl figure than Brazilian Walnut.

Color Range & Color Change:

Color Range: Patagonian Walnut ranges in color from a golden tan to a medium brown color. Some pieces may have some darker brown graining.

Color Change: Patagonian Walnut exhibits a medium degree of color change as the the wider color range in the freshly milled wood will quickly mute to a more uniform range and in color will also darken from a fresh milled gold/greenish color to a medium brown tone with golden highlights.

Hardness:

Patagonian Walnut is 220% as hard as red oak. ( 2800 on the Janka scale vs. 1260 for red oak ).

Where to Use:

Patagonian Walnut may be used residentially or commercially wherever the rich medium brown color is desired.

Stability:

Patagonian Walnut is relatively unstable and in very dry climates prone to shrinking. Care must be taken to properly equalize this wood and to source it only from reputable suppliers who dry it properly.

Allergic Reaction Potential:

Patagonian Walnut has been known to cause respiratory and contact dermatitis allergic reactions. Care should be taken when exposed to the dust of Patagonian Walnut.

Known Finish Issues:

Oil finishes may react adversely/not dry when used on Patagonian Walnut. Also stains may change color when used on Patagonian Walnut. ALWAYS test the finish you propose to use FIRST on test pieces to insure compatibility.