Bubinga
Guibourtia spp. (G. tessmannii, G. pellegriniana) • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to interlocked with a moderately coarse texture and fine natural luster. This sample shows a fairly straight grain with slight interlocking, though species can often exhibit figured patterns like pommele or waterfall.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from a pinkish red to a darker reddish brown with darker purple or black streaks. Sapwood is pale yellow. Likely to darken slightly with age and exposure to UV light.
Hardness Rating
2,410 lbf (Very Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; heartwood is rated as very durable regarding decay resistance and is resistant to termites and most wood-boring insects.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, veneer, flooring, musical instruments (especially drums and guitars), turnery, and knife handles.
Geographic Origin
Equatorial Africa (Cameroon, Gabon, Equatorial Guinea, Congo)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$15.00 - $25.00 per board foot for standard lumber; significantly higher for figured slabs.
Wood Age Estimate
Post-harvest age appears to be relatively recent (decades) based on the lack of extreme oxidation, though the tree itself was likely several centuries old at harvest.
Sustainability Status
Listed in CITES Appendix II; G. tessmannii and G. pellegriniana are on the IUCN Red List as Vulnerable due to over-exploitation.
Workability
Generally easy to work, though interlocked grain can cause tearout during planing. High silica content can dull cutters. Glues well, but pre-boring is necessary for nails/screws due to density.
Notable Features
Often nicknamed 'African Rosewood' despite not being a true Dalbergia. It has an unpleasant odor when green which disappears after drying. Known for excellent strength-to-weight ratio.
Finish Recommendations
Takes all finishes well. Oil finishes enhance the deep reds and natural luster effectively. Polyurethane or lacquer provides a durable protective layer for high-use surfaces.
Identification Confidence
High; the distinct reddish-pink hue with fine purple-brown streaks combined with the coarse pore structure and 'Kevazingo' texture is characteristic of Bubinga.