Mopani Wood (Driftwood)
Colophospermum mopane • Exotic/Tropical
Grain Pattern
Interlocked and very irregular due to gnarled growth; frequently displays twisted grain and natural deep crevices.
Color Description
Distinctive two-tone appearance with dark chocolate brown to black heartwood and contrasting tan or yellowish sapwood. Generally low luster but highly textured and darkens with age.
Hardness Rating
3370 lbf (Extremely Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; highly resistant to rot, termites, and fungal decay. Often used in aquariums because it sinks and resists water degradation.
Common Uses
Aquarium landscaping (hardscaping), reptile terrariums, small carvings, knife handles, and ornamental turnery.
Geographic Origin
Southern Africa (Namibia, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Botswana)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$15.00 to $30.00 per piece (typically sold by weight or piece rather than board foot for aquarium use)
Wood Age Estimate
Old-growth weathered specimens; the gnarled appearance suggests salvaged deadfall or roots that have been naturally weathered for decades.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern on IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable as it is often harvested from deadfall.
Workability
Difficult to work due to extreme density and interlocked grain. Causes rapid dulling of cutting edges. Typically sandblasted for aesthetic use.
Notable Features
Extremely heavy and dense (sinks in water); contains high levels of tannins which can leach into water; has a very rugged, textured surface.
Finish Recommendations
Usually left unfinished for biological/aquatic use. For decorative use, natural oils or waxes are recommended to enhance the dark heartwood.
Identification Confidence
High. The specific two-tone gnarled morphology, density, and weathering patterns are characteristic of African Mopani wood commonly used in pet trades.