Zebrano / Zebrawood
Microberlinia brazzavillensis · Exotic/Tropical
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical
- Origin
- West Africa (Cameroon and Gabon)
- Hardness
- 1,575 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Durable regarding rot resistance, but susceptible to insect attack. Recommended for indoor use primarily.
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Grain Pattern
Usually interlocked or wavy; the distinctive visual feature is the 'zebra-stripe' appearance caused by alternating dark and light growth rings, often quarter-sawn to produce very straight parallel lines.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is light golden yellow with streaks of dark brown or black. Luster is high. It can darken slightly with age and UV exposure, though the contrast remains sharp.
Hardness (Janka)
1,575 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable regarding rot resistance, but susceptible to insect attack. Recommended for indoor use primarily.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $20.00 to $35.00 per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern processing; likely less than 5 years since being milled based on the fresh color and modern radius sanding.
- Sustainability Status
- Vulnerable (IUCN Red List). Not CITES listed but population is declining; FSC certification is available but limited.
Common Uses
Veneer, fine furniture, cabinetry, luxury car interiors, flooring, and decorative turning items.
Geographic Origin
West Africa (Cameroon and Gabon)
Workability
Difficult due to interlocked grain which often causes significant tearout during planing. Glues and finishes well, though large pores may require grain filling for a glass-smooth finish.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane or lacquer works well to protect the surface; shellac is excellent as a sealer to prevent oil-bleeding from dark stripes.
Notable Features
Distinctive unpleasant odor when being worked (reminiscent of wet straw or manure). It has a high strength-to-weight ratio.
