Acacia (likely Mimosa or Black Wattle)
Acacia melanoxylon or Acacia nilotica • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Interlocked and wavy grain with occasional small knots and cathedral patterns visible on the flat-sawn surface; coarse texture with moderate natural luster.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from light golden brown to medium dark brown; sapwood is pale yellowish-white and clearly demarcated. The wood often exhibits dark streaks and may darken further upon exposure to UV light.
Hardness Rating
1,100 to 1,750 lbf (Medium to Hard depending on specific species)
Durability Rating
Durable to Very Durable; naturally resistant to rot, decay, and insect attack due to high density and natural oils.
Common Uses
Cutting boards, serving trays, small furniture items, flooring, cabinetry, and decorative turnings.
Geographic Origin
Native to Australia and Africa; widely naturalized/plantation-grown in Southeast Asia and India.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 to $12.00 per board foot depending on figure and source.
Wood Age Estimate
New to 2 years; the sample shows modern machine-cut edges and a fresh, matte finish without significant oxidation or deep patina.
Sustainability Status
Generally Sustainable; not listed on CITES Appendices or the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; widely available as plantation-grown timber.
Workability
Fair to good; interlocked grain can cause some tearout during planing. Glues and finishes well, though its high density can dull cutting edges over time.
Notable Features
Often used for food-contact items due to its durability and water resistance; may have a faint, sweet scent when being worked.
Finish Recommendations
Food-grade mineral oil or beeswax for cutting boards; lacquer or polyurethane for furniture to preserve color and grain depth.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of high-contrast sapwood/heartwood, distinct acacia grain structure, small tight knots, and use-case as a serving board are characteristic of plantation Acacia.