Acacia (Small-Leaf Acacia / Short-Leaf Acacia)
Acacia confusa • Hardwood / Exotic
Grain Pattern
Interlocked Grain. The sample shows a mix of straight and irregular fibers with characteristic wavy patterns and ribbon-like stripes common in butcher block orientations.
Color Description
Medium to dark brown heartwood with distinct streaks of red and yellow-gold. The sapwood is a yellowish-white, creating high contrast. Dries to a richer, darker tone with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1750 lbf (Hard to Very Hard classification)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable. While naturally resistant to decay, it is not as resistant to termites as some other tropical hardwoods; generally better for indoor use.
Common Uses
Countertops (butcher block), flooring, furniture, small turned objects, and household utensils.
Geographic Origin
Native to Southeast Asia (specifically Taiwan and the Philippines), often plantation-grown in Vietnam.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $12.00 per board foot (standard lumber); Butcher block slabs retail for $200-$500 depending on size.
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively recent manufacture (1-5 years). The presence of a modern factory-applied polyurethane or oil finish and the butcher block lamination suggests contemporary mass production.
Sustainability Status
Not listed on CITES Appendices or the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; generally considered a sustainable and invasive species in some regions.
Workability
Difficult due to interlocked grain which often causes tearout during planing. Glues and finishes well, but high silica content can dull tools quickly.
Notable Features
Distinctive sweet scent when being worked; known for high density and natural luster. It is a common substitute for Teak or Black Walnut in budget-conscious decor.
Finish Recommendations
Food-grade mineral oil/beeswax for cutting boards; Polyurethane or Lacquer for furniture to highlight the natural chatoyancy.
Identification Confidence
High; The color variation, grain structure, and specific butcher-block lamination style are highly characteristic of Acacia products commonly sold in modern home improvement retailers.