While Sapelli and Sapele are the most widely recognized commercial names are derived from its origin in Cameroon, the species is known by a variety of regional aliases across its native range in Africa. These include, but are not limited to, Aboudikro in Côte d’Ivoire, Penkwa in Ghana, Assi and Dilolo in Gabon, Ubilesan in Nigeria, Libuyu and Lifake in the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Undianuno in Angola. This proliferation of local names highlights the fragmented nature of the global timber trade and underscores the critical importance of referencing the scientific name.

Entandrophragma cylindricum, to ensure that the correct species is sourced and supplied. A buyer armed with knowledge of these aliases can navigate local markets more effectively, but the scientific name serves as the ultimate arbiter of material identity, preventing costly errors.