Acacia
Acacia sensu lato (frequently Acacia mangium or Acacia auriculiformis) • Hardwood / Exotic
Grain Pattern
Predominantly interlocked grain with a medium to coarse texture. Flat-sawn appearance in this butcher-block construction with occasional small knots and wavy fiber patterns.
Color Description
Highly variegated with light gold to medium brown heartwood and pale yellowish-white sapwood. Shows moderate luster and may darken slightly to a deeper golden brown over time with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1750 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable; good natural resistance to rot and decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
Butcher block countertops, flooring, casual furniture, shelving, and outdoor furniture.
Geographic Origin
Native to Australia and Africa; major commercial plantations located in Southeast Asia (Vietnam, Indonesia, and Malaysia).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$5.00 - $8.00 per board foot (typically sold as finished panels or countertops).
Wood Age Estimate
Young timber (5-15 years), likely plantation-grown and recently manufactured into a finger-jointed panel.
Sustainability Status
Not listed on CITES Appendices or the IUCN Red List; widely available as FSC-certified plantation-grown timber.
Workability
Generally easy to work, though interlocked grain can cause tearout during planing. Glues and finishes well; pre-drilling is recommended for screws.
Notable Features
Distinctive high contrast between sapwood and heartwood. Known for its density and relatively high water resistance compared to other hardwoods.
Finish Recommendations
Food-grade mineral oil or beeswax for countertops; polyurethane or lacquer for furniture to highlight the golden chatoyancy.
Identification Confidence
High; the finger-jointed construction, extreme color variegation, and specific grain structure are diagnostic for commercial Acacia butcher block products.