Bubinga
Color Range
The heartwood varies from vivid pinkish-red to deep reddish-brown, accented by dark purple or black veins. Over time, it typically oxidizes into a rich burgundy hue.
Grain
Bubinga is highly prized for its diverse visual effects, including waterfall, pommele, flamed, and quilted patterns.
Texture
This specific term refers to rotary-cut Bubinga veneer, which displays a wild, swirling, and veined figure frequently used in luxury architectural installations.
Other Names
Other names here.
Typical Uses
High-End Furniture: Large dining tables, desks, and cabinetry. Musical Instruments: Highly sought after for acoustic and electric guitar bodies, bass necks, and drum shells due to its warm resonance. Specialty Items: Knife handles, luxury automotive interiors (e.g., Lexus), and fine woodturning projects like bowls and pens.
Weight
4.58
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lbs /Bd. Ft. | 27.93% heavier than red oak (3.58 /bd. ft.)
Hardness
2628
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Janka Rating | 103.72% harder than red oak (1290 psi)
Density
0.88
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Specific Gravity | 37.50% more dense than red oak (.64)
Strength, Stability, and Durability
Strength and Stability: It features a high strength-to-weight ratio and excellent dimensional stability once properly seasoned. Durability: The heartwood is rated as durable to very durable, with natural resistance to decay, fungi, and termites.
Workability / Finishing
Machining Challenges: Due to its high density and occasional silica content, it can have a severe blunting effect on cutting tools; carbide-tipped blades are recommended. Interlocked Grain: While mostly easy to work, interlocked or wavy grain can cause "tearout" during planing unless a low cutting angle is used. Finishing and Gluing: It takes a high-gloss finish exceptionally well. However, natural oils and gum pockets can sometimes make gluing difficult; wiping surfaces with a solvent like acetone before gluing is a common 2026 professional practice.