Wood, often perceived as merely brown, can surprise with its vibrant spectrum. Certain wood species stand out for their striking purple coloration. This unique aesthetic quality transforms ordinary timber into material of remarkable visual appeal.
Common Purple Wood Varieties
One of the most recognized naturally purple woods is Purpleheart, derived from trees of the Peltogyne genus, primarily found in the tropical rainforests of Central and South America, ranging from Mexico down to southern Brazil. When freshly cut, Purpleheart heartwood typically appears a dull grayish-brown. However, upon exposure to air and light, it rapidly oxidizes, transforming into a rich, deep purple, sometimes referred to as eggplant purple.
This dramatic color change is a defining characteristic, making it highly sought after for its distinctive appearance. Purpleheart’s grain usually ranges from straight to wavy or irregular. Its vibrant color can vary from a lighter violet to an intense, almost indigo purple, depending on the specific species and environmental conditions. The wood is sometimes colloquially known by other names such as amaranth or violetwood.
Another wood exhibiting purple tones is Violetwood, which can be sourced from species like Platymiscium spp. or Dalbergia cearensis (Kingwood). These woods typically display a finer texture and a more subtle purple or violet hue, sometimes streaked with darker lines, making them distinct from the more uniformly colored Purpleheart.
The Chemistry of Purple Hues
The remarkable purple coloration in woods like Purpleheart stems from specific natural chemical compounds present within the wood cells. These compounds are typically flavonoids or quinones, which are complex organic molecules produced by the tree. Initially, these chromophores, or color-producing agents, are not fully developed or are in a less oxidized state within the living tree and freshly cut timber.
Upon exposure to ultraviolet light and oxygen in the air, these compounds undergo a chemical reaction known as oxidation. This process alters their molecular structure, leading to the formation of new chromophores that absorb and reflect light in specific ways, resulting in the vivid purple color. The intensity and permanence of the purple hue depend on the concentration of these compounds and the degree of oxidation.
Over extended periods, particularly with prolonged exposure to sunlight, the purple color can eventually deepen further or even shift towards a dark brown. This change occurs as the chemical compounds continue to react and break down, altering their light-absorbing properties. Protecting the wood from direct, intense UV light can help to preserve its vibrant purple shade for longer durations.
Beyond Color: Uses and Characteristics
Purple woods, especially Purpleheart, are valued not only for their striking color but also for their inherent physical properties that lend themselves to various applications. This wood is notably dense and hard. Its durability makes it suitable for uses where resistance to wear and impact is important.
Craftsmen frequently employ purple woods in fine woodworking, including furniture making, decorative inlays, and woodturning projects. The wood’s density also contributes to its excellent acoustic properties, making it a choice material for certain musical instruments, such as guitar fretboards or drum shells. Its ability to withstand heavy foot traffic also leads to its use in specialty flooring.
Working with purple wood can present challenges due to its hardness and tendency to dull tools. Its stability and resistance to decay make it a popular material for outdoor applications and heavy construction where longevity is valued. Maintaining the distinctive purple color often involves applying UV-resistant finishes, which can help slow the natural darkening process that occurs over time.