Koa
Acacia koa · Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Origin
- Endemic to the Hawaiian Islands, USA.
- Hardness
- 1,110 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Durable to Very Durable; resistant to rot and termite attack, suitable for functional indoor/outdoor use if properly maintained.
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Grain Pattern
Interlocked and wavy with significant chatoyancy and slight curly/fiddleback figure in sections; diffuse-porous structure with visible vessel lines.
Color & Appearance
Rich golden reddish-brown heartwood with darker streaks and a high natural luster. Pale yellowish sapwood is visible near the rim/base. Tends to darken and become more amber with age and sunlight exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,110 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable to Very Durable; resistant to rot and termite attack, suitable for functional indoor/outdoor use if properly maintained.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $50.00 - $150.00 per board foot depending on figure intensity (Koa is one of the most expensive domestically-sourced woods in the US).
- Wood Age Estimate
- Freshly turned or recently finished (5-10 years) based on the high luster, lack of deep oxidation, and contemporary bowl style.
- Sustainability Status
- Not CITES listed; however, it is heavily regulated due to declining native populations and is primarily harvested from dead or fallen trees on private land.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, musical instruments (ukuleles and guitars), bowl turning, cabinetry, and fine veneer.
Geographic Origin
Endemic to the Hawaiian Islands, USA.
Workability
Generally works well with hand and machine tools, though interlocked grain can cause tearout during planing and turning. Glues and finishes very well.
Finish Recommendations
Danish oil or shellac to pop the grain, followed by a high-gloss lacquer or polyurethane to enhance the chatoyant figure.
Notable Features
Distinctive chatoyancy (shimmer) that creates a 3D effect; high natural oil content; historically used by Hawaiian royalty for canoes and surfboards.
