Key similarities include:
- Color: warm tones ranging from pinkish brown to reddish brown
- Grain: fine, consistent texture with a natural satin finish
- Grain pattern: subtle and elegant lines
- Density: medium-hard wood offering good dimensional stability
Sapele is an excellent alternative to cherry wood for interior design, especially for furniture, flooring, and paneling.
Other species such as Padauk or certain types of Mahogany may also resemble cherry, although they generally have more intense color variations.