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Bubinga

Guibourtia demeusei

Also known as: African Rosewood, Kevazingo, Bubing

Technical Spec Sheet

2026-07-14

Bubinga wood grain

Reference grain swatch

Janka Hardness
2,690 lbf (11,966 N)
Avg. Dried Weight
860 kg/m³ (54 lb/ft³)
Specific Gravity
0.88
Type
Hardwood
Grain
Interlocked or irregular, sometimes with attractive figure
Texture
Fine to medium
Durability
Very durable, resistant to decay and insects
Region
Africa
Sustainability
Restricted — Vulnerable - check CITES and FSC certification for sustainable sourcing

Overview

Bubinga is a prized African hardwood renowned for its striking reddish-brown color and dramatic figure. Used extensively in fine furniture and musical instruments, it offers exceptional durability and a distinctive appearance that rivals rosewoods.

Heartwood ranges from reddish-brown to purplish-brown with darker streaks and occasional fiddleback or mottled figure. Sapwood is pale pink to light brown. Density averages 860 kg/m³ with a Janka hardness of 2,690 lbf. Moderately stable despite interlocked grain.

Workshop Notes

Blunting Effect

Moderate to high - dense wood dulls tools quickly

Gluing

Good with proper surface preparation

Finishing

Excellent - takes oil and polish beautifully

Steam Bending

Poor - interlocked grain resists bending

Scent

Mild, not distinctive when worked

Assessment

Strengths

  • Very hard and dense
  • Beautiful figure
  • Excellent durability
  • Good stability

Weaknesses

  • Interlocked grain can cause tearout
  • Can be expensive
  • Heavy

Common Uses

Fine furniture · Veneer · Turnery · Musical instruments · Inlays · Flooring