Koa (or Monkeypod/Acacia as alternatives)
Acacia koa · Exotic/Tropical
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical
- Origin
- Hawaiian Islands, endemic to the region.
- Hardness
- 1,170 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable to Durable, with good resistance to marine borers but susceptible to dry-wood termites.
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Grain Pattern
Interlocked and wavy grain with rich figure, showing some curl and a small knot characteristic of flat-to-quarter-sawn boards.
Color & Appearance
Golden brown to deep reddish-brown heartwood with striking dark streaks and a distinct lighter yellowish-white sapwood band visible on the edge. High natural luster and chatoyance.
Hardness (Janka)
1,170 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable to Durable, with good resistance to marine borers but susceptible to dry-wood termites.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 15.00 to 35.00 dollars per board foot depending on figure grade.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern to recently milled sample, showing fresh cuts and minimal oxidation patina.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices, but old-growth Koa is heavily protected and restricted; mostly harvested from fallen or dead trees on private or state lands.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, ukuleles and other acoustic instruments, veneer, turnings, and decorative items.
Geographic Origin
Hawaiian Islands, endemic to the region.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though figured sections with interlocked grain can cause tearout during planing. Glues, turns, and finishes exceptionally well.
Finish Recommendations
Responds wonderfully to oils, shellac, and lacquer to pop the chatoyance and grain figure. High-gloss polyurethane is also popular for instruments.
Notable Features
Famous for its deep, three-dimensional chatoyance and rich color variation. Holds immense cultural significance in Hawaii, particularly for canoe building and musical instruments.
