Black Palm
Borassus flabellifer · Monocot (Exotic)
- Type
- Monocot (Exotic)
- Origin
- Native to tropical regions of Southeast Asia and Africa.
- Hardness
- 2,020 lbf (Very Hard)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable to Durable; highly resistant to decay and insects, though the lighter parenchyma is more susceptible to rot than the dark fibers.
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Grain Pattern
Highly irregular and fibrous; lacks growth rings. Characterized by dark, needle-like vascular bundles embedded in a lighter-colored parenchyma (soft tissue).
Color & Appearance
Reddish-brown background (parenchyma) with dark chocolate-brown to black linear streaks (vascular bundles). It has a medium luster and darkens significantly with age.
Hardness (Janka)
2,020 lbf (Very Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable to Durable; highly resistant to decay and insects, though the lighter parenchyma is more susceptible to rot than the dark fibers.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- Approximately $25.00 to $40.00 per board foot, often sold as blanks or turning squares.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Cannot be determined by rings; however, the oxidation level suggests a seasoned board, likely processed within the last 5-10 years.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; generally considered a sustainable byproduct of agricultural palm cultivation.
Common Uses
Turning (pens, bowls), knife handles, walking sticks, inlay work, flooring, and small decorative luxury items.
Geographic Origin
Native to tropical regions of Southeast Asia and Africa.
Workability
Challenging to work; the hard vascular bundles splinter easily while the soft tissue can crumble. Requires very sharp tools and high speeds when turning. Gluing and finishing are generally good.
Finish Recommendations
High-gloss finishes like CA glue (cyanoacrylate) for small items, or sanding to a high grit and applying a film finish like polyurethane to lock in the fibers.
Notable Features
It is not a true wood but a monocot. It has no growth rings. Splinters are very sharp and brittle, making it a hazard for skin irritation.
