Belongs to the family of Fabaceae, Afzelia is a native tree to tropical Africa and Asia. It can be found in the forests of Cameroon in Africa and is widely known for its coarse texture and exotic appeal. Afzelia is mainly used for its wood; however, some of its species also have medicinal uses. Its timber is traded with the common name “doussie” or “Afzelia”. Another popular name for Afzelia is “pod mahogany” but note that it is not a mahogany tree.
What does Afzelia wood look like?
The color and appearance of Afzelia’s heartwood is reddish brown. It has a well-defined sapwood in pale yellowish-white color. As Afzelia wood ages, its color darkens. Most species of African Afzelia are available as unfigured lumber, while burls and figured pieces with blister figure are typically Asian Afzelia.
If we talk about its grain or texture, its grain is interlocked with a uniform medium to coarse texture and has a natural luster.
Is Afzelia wood a good choice? What are the uses of Afzelia wood?
Afzelia wood is an ideal choice for outdoor velodromes. Besides, it is also commonly used for making furniture, cabinetry, turned objects, inlays, docks, flooring, veneer, and more. It can be used for interior and exterior joinery, heavy construction, doors, staircases, and even countertops.
What makes Afzelia wood a good option?
The good thing about Afzelia wood is that it is very durable and moderately resistant to termites and marine borers. It is also resistant to other insect attacks.
The problem with Afzelia wood is that it is somewhat difficult to work because of its interlocked grain. Hence, tear-outs are common during different machining operations when working on Afzelia wood. Gluing and finishing can be good depending on exactly which species you have.
Some species of Afzelia wood contain water-soluble yellow deposits in the pores, due to which staining and finishing become difficult. Once a product from this wood is ready, you can relax because it doesn’t have any characteristic odor, making it easier for people to choose this over the ones that have some odor.
What’s more, it remains smooth even under friction and shows only small movement with time.
Is Afzelia wood expensive?
Afzelia wood is relatively affordable. While clear lumber of Afzelia tends to have moderate prices for imported hardwood, figured wood and burls are more expensive. Afzelia wood is worth its price because it is hard and strong, making it one of the most exotic hardwood species.
Is Afzelia better than mahogany or teak wood?
Afzelia wood is often compared with mahogany and teak wood because of its attractive appearance, durability, and stability. Available as commercial timber, Afzelia wood is usually exported from Africa.
If you need high-quality Afzelia wood, please connect with Trading Expression now.