Description

Also known as Essingang, Kevazingo, and African Rosewood, Bubinga is not a true rosewood, although it is closely related and has many similarities. It is found in central and western tropical Africa - particularly Gabon, Cameroon, and Zaire. The trees are known to be massive, with logs weighing in excess of 10 tons and producing exceptionally wide planks.

When freshly cut, the wood is usually pink-red and darkens to a deep burgundy or purple over time. The heartwood is typically a medium red-brown, while the sapwood is ivory in colour and distinct from the heartwood. The wood is often straight grained although curl is common, as is interlocking grain. The wood usually shows distinct annual growth rings and gum pockets are fairly common. The texture is generally considered to be coarse and consistent. The wood is hard, heavy and stable, and finished to a high lustre.

Bubinga is often used in solid form for furniture, and cut into veneer for use in panels and plywood. It is often used for boat building and flooring and is a favourite wood for turnings and for knife scales.

Also known as:

• African Rosewood
• Kevazingo

For further information see:

• The Wood Database
• Woods To Know