Black Palm
Borassus flabellifer · Exotic/Tropical
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect- Type
- Exotic/Tropical
- Origin
- Southeast Asia and tropical regions of Africa and India.
- Hardness
- 2,020 lbf (Very Hard)
- Durability
- Durable to Very Durable, with good natural resistance to decay and insects.
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Grain Pattern
Straight, parallel fibrous strands with no growth rings, featuring dark vascular bundles embedded in a lighter fibrous matrix.
Color & Appearance
Dark brown to black fibrous streaks mixed with tan or golden background, lacking distinct heartwood and sapwood separation.
Hardness (Janka)
2,020 lbf (Very Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable to Very Durable, with good natural resistance to decay and insects.
Value & Age
15.00 to 25.00 USD per board foot.
AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively modern cut sample, estimated at less than 10 years old based on clean edges and minimal oxidation.
Common Uses
Flooring, fine furniture, turnings, knife handles, and specialty decorative items.
Geographic Origin
Southeast Asia and tropical regions of Africa and India.
Workability
Difficult to work due to extreme density variation between soft parenchyma tissue and hard vascular bundles, causing rapid tool dulling.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane or lacquer works well after thorough sanding and grain filling to smooth the textured surface.
Notable Features
Unusual monocot anatomy featuring spike-like vascular bundles instead of traditional annual growth rings.
