Bubinga
From Floor Coverings
Contents |
Wood Species
Bubinga
Biological name
Guibourtia Demeusei
Originates from or commonly found in
Cameroon and Gabon, West Africa
Physical appearance
The Bubinga tree grows to a height of 130-150 feet. The diameter of the trunk is 3-6 feet. The Bubinga may not bear fruit, however, long-standing beliefs hold that these trees contain ancestral spirits! Bubinga color and density varies by species, but the sapwood is narrow and white in color while the heartwood is typically rich pink-red or purplish brown with darker veining.
Flooring Properties
Bubinga, also known as African Rosewood or Striped Rosewood, is a hard, heavy wood with characteristics similar to the rosewood. It is relatively hard and dense, but can be machine-worked to a fine finish. Working with hand or power tools is usually easy, but gluing can be difficult because of gum pockets. For nailing, pre-boring holes is highly recommended. It is a hard and heavy wood considered very durable. The finished hardwood has a rose-colored background and darker purple striping. It has a fine texture and finishes very smoothly, with an almost glassy look. Bubinga is also noted for its very even grain pattern. This wood will darken somewhat over time, its heartwood of pink-red changing to red-brown.
Janka Rating
Bubinga has a hardness rating of 1980.
