African rosewood
Captured from the historical species datasheet.
At a glance
Scientific nameGuibourtia coleosperma
Trade / common nameAfrican rosewood
FamilyLeguminosae
RegionMiddle Africa · Southern Africa · Eastern Africa
Distribution
Tropical Africa
Uses
Agricultural implements, Boat building (general), Boxes and crates, Cabinetmaking, Carvings, Crossties, Decorative veneer, Factory flooring, Flooring, Furniture , Furniture, Heavy construction, Joinery, Millwork, Mine timbers, Paneling , Paneling, Plywood, Poles, Posts, Pulp/Paper products, Railroad ties, Tool handles, Turnery, Vehicle parts, Veneer: decorative, Wheel spokes, Wheels
Countries & Distribution
These country connections come directly from the same SQL country–species bridge used by Country Detail and the Global Navigator.
Wood images
Linked historical images associated with this species record.
African rosewood
Captured from the historical species datasheet.
Projects & Inspiration
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Project images are illustrative inspiration, not species-identification photographs. Suitability should be checked against the species data and project requirements.
Fine woodworkingDecorative detailsSmall crafted objects
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Project guidance can build on this species record, its properties and documented uses.
Appearance
Heartwood color
Historical source observations are shown separately; differences may reflect source, geography, test condition or publication.
Purple
Black
Brown
Red
Reddish brown
Dark brown
Pinkish brown
Pink when freshly cut
Pale red to pink
Freshly-Cut color is pinkish-brown, with darker almost purple streaks. The color ages to a rich mahogany red-brown, and the streaks become less obvious.
Sapwood Color
Historical source observations are shown separately; differences may reflect source, geography, test condition or publication.
White
Yellow
White to yellow
Well defined
Pinkish
Clearly differentiated from the heartwood
Luster
Medium
Dull
Uses & Applications
Common Uses
Agricultural implements, Boat building (general), Boxes and crates, Cabinetmaking, Carvings, Crossties, Decorative veneer, Factory flooring, Flooring, Furniture , Furniture, Heavy construction, Joinery, Millwork, Mine timbers, Paneling , Paneling, Plywood, Poles, Posts, Pulp/Paper products, Railroad ties, Tool handles, Turnery, Vehicle parts, Veneer: decorative, Wheel spokes, Wheels
Product Sources
About 1480 cubic feet (40 cub. m) of the timber is available per month from sustainably managed sources in Africa.
Full Technical Species Profile
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Protected technical content includes physical and mechanical properties, working and drying characteristics, durability data, detailed technical observations, references and methodology.