- Species: Derived from Terminalia Superba.
- Origin: Native to West Africa (Ghana, Ivory Coast, Cameroon).
- Durability: Moderate – not highly resistant to decay but reasonably durable for indoor applications.
- Highlights: Lightweight, easy to work with, and highly attractive; heartwood ranges from dark brown to black, often contrasting with creamy sapwood.
- Form: Sawn lumber, veneers, turning blanks, and slabs.
- Grade: Select and commercial grades, with decorative figure often influencing price.
- Moisture: Kiln-dried or air-dried; target MC (6 – 12%).
- Dimensions Available: Sawn Lumber / Boards: Thickness: 2.5 cm, 3.8 cm, 5 cm, 6.3 cm, 7.5 cm / Width: 10 cm – 30 cm / Length: 180 cm – 320 cm. / Veneer Sheets: Thickness: 0.05 cm – 0.2 cm / Width: 12 cm – 25 cm / Length: 240 cm – 300 cm. Turning Blanks / Blocks: Square Blocks: 5×5×30 cm, 7.5×7.5×30 cm / Pen Blanks: 2×2×15 cm. / Slabs: Thickness: 4 cm – 10 cm / Width: 20 cm – 50 cm / Length: 180 cm – 300 cm.
- Janka Hardness: ~950 lbf (4,200 N) – relatively soft compared to dense hardwoods.
- Grain: Straight to interlocked; coarse to medium texture; good natural luster.
- Color: Heartwood dark brown to black; sapwood pale yellow to light brown; dramatic contrast often desired for decorative purposes.
- Water Resistance: Low to moderate – not suitable for wet or outdoor use without treatment.
- Certification: FSC® available from some West African suppliers.
- Outdoor Suitability: Limited – mainly indoor use due to low decay resistance.
- Indoor Suitability: Excellent – suitable for furniture, cabinetry, flooring, musical instruments, and veneers.
- Estimated Prices: Per Cubic Meter (m3) = ~US $3,500 to $6,000+ / Price per Piece = ~US $40 to $200+ (Depending on Size, figure).
- Use Cases: Furniture, cabinetry, interior paneling, decorative veneers, musical instruments, turned objects, and light-duty flooring.
