Blackwood is a medium-sized Australian hardwood. It is also known as Acacia melanoxylon, an Acacia Species native in Southeastern Australia. It also grows in the eastern states. In the wetter areas of Tasmania, it is grown in large volumes for commercial use. It is also known as Australian Blackwood, Paluma Blackwood and Black Wattle.
Although called “Blackwood”, the name is somewhat of a misnomer, as its wood is not at all black. The heartwood is a rich, golden brown, sometimes complimented by reddish streaks and often with narrow bands of darker colour, indicative of the growth rings. The sapwood can be up to 50mm wide and is much paler in appearance. Even-textured, blackwood grain can either be straight or have a wavy, fiddleback pattern, which is valued for furniture and veneers. Blackwood timber is sought after for its impressive appearance and finish qualities.
Application & Attributes
It is commonly used for interior-based applications. It is an attractive and durable interior-based timber but has low in-ground durability, so it is not ideal for external applications.
Blackwood is easy to work and nails and glues well. A smooth, polished finish can be achieved, making blackwood ideal for furniture. It is also good for steam bending. It is important that safety precautions are taken when sanding blackwood, as the dust can be an irritant.
Price Guide: $$$
Sample Handles in Blackwood
Other Names
Australian Koa, Black Acacia, Tasmanian blackwood, Acacia blackwood.
Sources:
https://brittontimbers.com.au/timbers/tasmanian-blackwood/
https://www.woodsolutions.com.au/wood-species/blackwood
https://www.wood-database.com/australian-blackwood/
https://www.tegs.co.za/products/timber/sa-blackwood/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Acacia_melanoxylon