Acacia-Blackwood

Black Acacia is a dense, lustrous hardwood prized for its dramatic contrast, fine texture, and exceptional strength. Heartwood ranges from deep chocolate brown to nearly black, often accented by lighter golden sapwood that creates bold visual character in finished pieces. Native to Australia, this species is highly valued by woodworkers for its durability, stability, and natural polish, making it ideal for fine furniture, turned objects, knife scales, and luxury crafts.

Botanical Name: Acacia melanoxylon

Family: Fabaceae

Common & Trade Names:

Black Acacia, Australian Blackwood, Tasmanian Blackwood, Blackwood, Acacia Blackwood

Often Confused With:

Sometimes mistaken for koa (Acacia koa) due to similar color range and figure, though Black Acacia typically has a finer texture and darker overall tone. Also confused with true ebony because of its dark coloration, but it is less brittle and easier to work.

Workability & Characteristics:

Hard, strong, and dimensionally stable. Machines, turns, and carves well with sharp tools. Takes glue and finish exceptionally, producing a natural glass-like sheen. Figured pieces may display curl, fiddleback, or mottling.

Health & Allergy Information:

Dust may cause irritation to eyes, skin, and respiratory system. Sensitization is possible with repeated exposure. Use appropriate protective equipment when machining.

Typical Uses:

Fine furniture, cabinetry, musical instruments, gunstocks, knife handles, pens, bowls, carvings, veneer, decorative inlays, and specialty woodworking projects.

Black Acacia wood, Australian Blackwood lumber, Acacia melanoxylon, exotic hardwood, dark hardwood, furniture wood, turning wood, knife handle wood, premium hardwood, figured acacia, Tasmanian Blackwood, luxury craft wood