Bamboo (Strand-Woven / Processing Material)
Bambusa spp. / Phyllostachys edulis · Bamboo
- Type
- Bamboo
- Origin
- Native to Asia (predominantly China), widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions globally
- Hardness
- 1,380 - 3,000+ lbf (Hard to Extremely Hard, depending on whether processed/strand-woven or natural culm)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable; vulnerable to moisture and mold if raw and untreated, but highly resistant to insects and rot when properly resin-impregnated or carbonized
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Straight, coarse fibrous texture with heavy surface fuzzing and splintering from cross-grain machining or rough ripping
Color & Appearance
Natural pale yellow to light tan/golden cream; uniform color throughout the fibrous bundles, low surface luster in raw unplaned state
Hardness (Janka)
1,380 - 3,000+ lbf (Hard to Extremely Hard, depending on whether processed/strand-woven or natural culm)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable; vulnerable to moisture and mold if raw and untreated, but highly resistant to insects and rot when properly resin-impregnated or carbonized
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $3.00 - $7.00 per square foot (or ~$4.00 - $8.00 per board foot equivalent depending on strand density and finish)
- Wood Age Estimate
- Recently processed or milled board; shows fresh, pale, unoxidized fibers with no historical patina or weathering
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern; highly sustainable fast-growing grass, widely FSC-certified with rapid renewable harvesting cycles (3-5 years)
Common Uses
Flooring, decking, structural beams, furniture, cutting boards, trim, and decorative panelling
Geographic Origin
Native to Asia (predominantly China), widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions globally
Workability
Difficult to machine when unseasoned or raw; high silica content causes rapid dulling of steel blades; high tendency for tearing, splintering, and fibrous furring unless carbide tools and sharp jointing/planing techniques are used
Finish Recommendations
Requires thorough sanding to remove surface fuzz and torn fibers; seal with penetrating oil, polyurethane, or film-forming lacquer after micro-sanding to 180-220 grit
Notable Features
Monocot vascular bundle structure producing distinct longitudinal fibers rather than true tree growth rings; high silica content and strong tensile strength
