Acacia (likely Short-leaved Acacia or Blackwood)
Acacia confusa or Acacia melanoxylon • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Naturally interlocked and wavy grain with visible dark streaks; includes a high-contrast glue-up of heartwood and sapwood sections.
Color Description
Varied heartwood ranging from medium reddish-brown to dark chocolate brown with darker streaks. Sapwood is a distinct light yellowish-tan. Luster is medium-high with noticeable chatoyance under light.
Hardness Rating
1750 lbf (Hard to Very Hard)
Durability Rating
Durable; excellent natural resistance to decay and rot, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
Cutting boards, serving trays, small furniture items, flooring, and decorative bowls.
Geographic Origin
Native to Southeast Asia, Australia, and parts of the Pacific Islands; widely farmed in tropical plantations.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 to $12.00 per board foot depending on thickness and quality.
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively modern (under 10 years). The sharp edges and lack of deep oxidation suggest recent manufacture/consumer goods origin.
Sustainability Status
Generally Sustainable; not CITES listed. Often plantation-grown and considered an invasive or fast-growing species in certain regions.
Workability
Fairly easy to work, though interlocked grain can cause surface tear-out during planing. Glues and finishes well.
Notable Features
Distinctive high-contrast 'striped' look when sapwood and heartwood are combined; sweet scent when freshly cut; moderate weight.
Finish Recommendations
Food-grade mineral oil or beeswax for kitchen use (as pictured). Lacquer or polyurethane for decorative furniture.
Identification Confidence
High; the color transition between the blonde sapwood and chocolate heartwood, combined with the specific 'small-pore' texture, is characteristic of plantation-grown Acacia products commonly used for housewares.