Asian Walnut / Monkeypod / Acacia (specifically commonly used plantation Acacia or Asian Walnut like Samanea saman or Acacia mangium)
Acacia mangium / Samanea saman · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Southeast Asia and Oceania (plantation grown)
- Hardness
- 1,520 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Moderately durable to durable, with good resistance to decay, though susceptible to powder-post beetles if untreated.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly interlocked grain with medium to coarse texture, showing distinct growth rings and subtle ribbon-like figure on face-sawn edge-glued panels.
Color & Appearance
Rich golden brown to dark amber heartwood with contrasting lighter yellowish sapwood, featuring medium luster, good chatoyance under finish, and darkening to a warmer amber hue with age and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,520 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately durable to durable, with good resistance to decay, though susceptible to powder-post beetles if untreated.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- Moderate, roughly $4.00 to $8.00 per board foot as lumber, or sold as pre-fabricated panels.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be a modern manufactured item (less than 5-10 years old) made from recently harvested plantation timber.
- Sustainability Status
- Generally considered sustainable due to widespread plantation cultivation in Southeast Asia; not CITES listed.
Common Uses
Edge-glued panels, countertops, furniture, cabinetry, flooring, and decorative turning.
Geographic Origin
Southeast Asia and Oceania (plantation grown)
Workability
Generally works well with both hand and machine tools, though interlocked grain can occasionally cause tearout during planing. Glues and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane, varnish, or hardening oils (like Danish oil) highlight the rich grain contrast and protect the surface well.
Notable Features
Attractive natural color variations across the edge-glued staves, good dimensional stability when properly dried, and moderate natural oil content.