Wenge
Millettia laurentii • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly interlocked grain with a very coarse texture. It features distinct, alternating dark and light colored bands (parenchyma) that create a characteristic 'partridge' or 'feathered' pattern when flat-sawn.
Color Description
Heartwood is medium brown, sometimes with a reddish or yellowish hue, nearly blackening with age. Sapwood is yellowish-white. The wood is naturally dark and very matte, lacking significant luster unless polished.
Hardness Rating
1,630 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; highly resistant to termite attack and rot. Suitable for heavy-use environments.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, flooring, cabinetry, musical instruments (especially guitar necks and fretboards), veneer, and paneling.
Geographic Origin
Central Africa (Cameroon, Congo, Gabon, Equatorial Guinea, and Zaire).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$25.00 - $35.00 per board foot, depending on width and grain consistency.
Wood Age Estimate
Indeterminate; however, the deep chocolate-to-black oxidation suggests the sample has been exposed to light and air for several years or has been finished to enhance its dark tones.
Sustainability Status
Listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List; CITES Appendix II listed. Sourcing requires strict documentation and FSC certification is highly recommended.
Workability
Difficult to work with hand or machine tools due to high density and blunting effect on cutters. Sanding can be challenging as the dark dust is very fine and can cause allergic reactions. It glues reasonably well but requires pre-drilling for screws.
Notable Features
Known for its unique 'webbed' appearance. The wood dust is toxic and can cause skin/respiratory irritation. It has excellent strength-to-weight and dimensional stability properties.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes are preferred to highlight the deep colors. A sanding sealer or grain filler is often necessary to achieve a smooth surface due to the very large, open pores.
Identification Confidence
High; the distinct 'coffee bean' color and the specific arrangement of darker streaks alongside the coarse, fibrous texture are classic indicators of Millettia laurentii.