Acacia
Acacia sensu lato (frequently Acacia mangium or Acacia auriculiformis) · Hardwood / Exotic
- Type
- Hardwood / Exotic
- Origin
- Native to Australia and Africa; major commercial plantations located in Southeast Asia (Vietnam, Indonesia, and Malaysia).
- Hardness
- 1750 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable; good natural resistance to rot and decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
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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 & Appearance
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 (Janka)
1750 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable; good natural resistance to rot and decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
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.
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).
Workability
Generally easy to work, though interlocked grain can cause tearout during planing. Glues and finishes well; pre-drilling is recommended for screws.
Finish Recommendations
Food-grade mineral oil or beeswax for countertops; polyurethane or lacquer for furniture to highlight the golden chatoyancy.
Notable Features
Distinctive high contrast between sapwood and heartwood. Known for its density and relatively high water resistance compared to other hardwoods.
