Pterocarpus soyauxii
Other names: African padauk, African coral wood
Harm score: 1 (Natural substances)
Pterocarpus soyauxii, also known as African padauk or African coralwood, is a tropical tree species found mainly in central and west Africa. This species is characterised by its large flowers made up of many tiny yellow-orange flowers, and its wood is highly prized for its colour and durability. In the sun it changes its rich orange-red colour to a dark brown, which makes it very popular in carving, but also in music making, especially musical instruments.
The uses of African padauk are manifold. Its wood is highly resistant to termites and wood-destroying insects, which makes it suitable for building shipwrecks, bridges and also as a building material for house construction. Its deep orange colour and fine texture make it the perfect material for furniture, flooring, doors, windows and window sills. It is also popular with musicians as it is excellent for making musical instruments, especially guitars and marimbas. Due to its strength and durability, it is also used in the manufacture of tools and various implements. In addition to these practical uses, African padauk also has medicinal properties that are widely used in traditional African medicine.