Botanically, the species Acacia heterophylla belongs to the tribe Acacieae. The species is thus closely related to Acacia koa (Hawaii) and Acacia melanoxylon (Australian Blackwood). The approximately 120 known African acacia species have also been taxonomically listed under the (new) generic names Acaciella, Senegalia and Vachellia since 2013. The distribution of these species extends to the semi-arid and semi-humid forests of Africa.
Heartwood light brown to reddish dark brown with often distinctive markings, clearly separated from the light sapwood. Pores fine to medium sized, scattered and not numerous, variable in size and density. storage cells are stored around the pores. Medullary rays arranged very finely and in tiers, radial growth zones differently distinct. Occasional alternating twisted growth, bark inclusions and mineral deposits over the entire trunk. Decorative to very decorative.
Density at 12% wood moisture is on average 0.65 tons/m3 (+/- 0.60…0.75). The shrinkage is specified as 3.8 % tangential and 3.4 % radial, both low values. The stamina is good. The wood can be dried easily and without cracking at low thicknesses and can be worked with all tools without difficulty. Decorative and smooth surfaces can be created if the wood is selected carefully.
High-quality interior wood, parquet flooring, musical instruments, woodturning.
Sources: PROTA Foundation / ITTO 2008, Wageningen, NL
Wagenführ 1989: Wood atlas
