Zebrawood
Microberlinia brazzavillensis • Exotic/Tropical
Grain Pattern
Coarse texture with an interlocked or wavy grain pattern; noted for its characteristic dark brown to black streaks resembling zebra stripes.
Color Description
Heartwood is light golden-yellow with narrow streaks of dark brown to black; sapwood is pale white and clearly demarcated. It has a high natural luster.
Hardness Rating
1575 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Durable; resistant to termites and rot, though mostly used for indoor applications due to heartwood properties.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, veneer, tool handles, boatbuilding, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Central Africa (Gabon, Cameroon, Congo)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$20.00 to $35.00 per board foot depending on figure and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly cut/Modern; the sharp edges and lack of oxidation suggest a contemporary lumber sample.
Sustainability Status
Vulnerable (IUCN Red List); not currently CITES listed but supply is regulated in many regions.
Workability
Difficult to work; interlocked grain causes significant tearout during planing. Drills and glues well, but requires sharp tools.
Notable Features
Distinctive unpleasant odor when being worked; high density and very heavy.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane, lacquer, or oil. Finishing with a sealer is recommended to prevent the contrasting stripes from bleeding.
Identification Confidence
High; the distinctive dark 'zebra' striping against the golden-yellow background is highly characteristic of this species.