Patagonian Walnut (Lapacho) Species
Information

Information pertaining to the Patagonian Walnut
wood species is detailed below:
Specie Names
Botanical Name: Tabebuia, heptaphylla.
Lumber Name(s): Lapacho.
Grown in: Paraguay, Southern Brazil.
Description
Patagonian Walnut is in the same family as Brazilian Walnut/Ipe. It has
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 and 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;
the wider color range in the freshly milled wood will quickly mute
to become more uniform. The overall hue will also darken from a fresh
milled
gold/greenish color to a medium brown tone with golden highlights.
Where to Use
Patagonian Walnut may be used residentially or commercially wherever
its rich medium-brown color is desired.
Special Characteristics and Issues
Site Sanding/ Finishing: This species has a number of alkalines in
its chemical makeup which interfere with drying, adhesion and staining.
While
some oil finishes will dry on this wood,most will not. Also, some neutral
oil finishes have reacted with these alkalines and turned red when
used with this wood. A water-based finish is the safest bet.
Allergic Reactions: 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.
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