
Also known as: iroko lumber, african teak.
Iroko (Milicia excelsa) is a West and East African hardwood recognised for its yellow-brown heartwood and a density of approximately 0.65 g/cm³. Its combination of excellent durability and dimensional stability makes it a dependable choice where timber must hold its shape and resist wear over time.
The material machines and finishes well, suiting both structural and decorative applications. Common uses include door and window frames, ship decking and carvings, where its stability under varying conditions is valued.
Iroko, botanically known as Milicia excelsa, is one of the most recognized and widely traded hardwood species originating from the African continent. At Hong Kong Senheda Wood Limited, we supply Iroko as part of our comprehensive portfolio of African timber, sourced through our integrated supply chain network that spans 100 Chinese-invested timber factories across Africa.
This species is valued by buyers in China, Vietnam, India, the Middle East, and other international markets for its combination of durability, dimensional stability, and workability, making it a practical choice for both structural and decorative applications.The heartwood of Iroko presents a distinctive yellow-brown tone, a color that gives the wood a warm, natural appearance suitable for exposed applications where visual character matters. Beyond its appearance, Iroko is recognized for excellent durability and dimensional stability.
These two properties are central to its commercial appeal. Dimensional stability means the wood resists significant movement and distortion after processing and installation, which is critical for applications such as door and window frames where fit and function must be maintained over time.
Excellent durability indicates the wood's capacity to withstand environmental exposure and biological degradation, supporting its use in demanding settings including marine and outdoor environments.Iroko's distribution is notably broad. It is found across West to East Africa, with commercial sources including countries such as Ghana and Uganda.
| Density | ~0.65 g/cm³ |
|---|---|
| Yellow-brown heartwood | |
| Excellent durability and dimensional stability | |
| MOQ | Sawn timber: from 1 x 40' container. Logs & square timber: from 5 containers for selected species. Trial orders welcome when minimum shipping quantity is met. |
|---|---|
| Drying | Air dried (AD) or kiln dried (KD). KD moisture content is set per species, thickness and order requirement. |
| Grades & sizes | FAS or commercially agreed grades; thickness, width, length and tolerances per contract. |
| Trade terms | FOB or CFR quotations. CIF currently not offered; door delivery not provided. |
| Payment | T/T — 30% deposit, 70% against copy of B/L and agreed documents. At-sight L/C accepted; usance L/C assessed case by case. |
| Lead time | Stock orders ship promptly after payment and booking confirmation; production orders typically 1-2 months depending on species, sawing and drying schedule. |
| Pre-shipment proof | Actual cargo photos, video and stuffing documents provided before shipment so you verify exactly what loads. |
| Export documents | Complete document set per shipment: Bill of Lading, Certificate of Origin, phytosanitary certificate, CITES permit for regulated species, and detailed packing list. |

Send your specification and we come back with FOB/CFR pricing, current stock status and cargo photos of what we can load for you.