Zebrawood Lumber

Common Trade Names: Zebrawood, African zebrawood, Zebrano, Zingana, Allene

Scientific Name: Microberlinia brazzavillensis

Color Range: light to golden brown or cream with dark brown streaks

Availability: available as lumber or veneer in limited supply and are often expensive

Janka Hardness Scale: 1,830 lbf

Average Weight per BF: 3.83 lbs./ Bd. Ft.

What Is Zebrawood?

Zebrawood is one of the most sought-after exotic wood species from the massive tree in the African rainforest. It can grow up to 150 ft tall with a diameter of up to 5 ft. It has a straight and cylindrical bole and an amazingly thick bark.

Its most distinctive feature is the stripe appearance that earned the wood its moniker. These are prominent in quartersawn logs. The stripes are highly variable. Some lines are thicker than others, while in other logs, they appear consistent. Aside from decorative uses, zebrawood exotic lumber is also used for wall paneling, furniture, bandings, turned objects and guitars.

Where Does Zebrawood Come From?

Three species of wood share the same name, “zebrawood.” One originated from Britain in the late 1700s and was replaced by the Brazilian specie. Authentic zebrawood is the West African Microberlinia Brazzavillensis that supplies the zebrawood lumber worldwide. It mostly thrives in countries like Cameroon and Gabon.

Is Zebrawood a Hardwood or Softwood?

Zebrawood is a hardwood. It is a type of tree that loses its leaves annually and grows slowly but has a longer lifespan. Hardwoods have cellulose structures that are very dense, resulting in tough lumber. Aside from its thick bark, zebrawood lumber also has prevailing interlocking grain. It is highly strong, with a Janka hardness of 1,830 lbf.

Can Zebrawood Furniture Go Outside?

Zebrawood lumber is rated durable and highly resistant to termites. It can be made into outdoor furniture guaranteed to withstand the weather and elements. The wood is also sturdy and a premium choice for boatbuilding. However, most boatbuilders would prefer other affordable lumber over zebrawood because of its hefty price tag.

How to Care for Zebrawood Furniture

Zebrawood furniture requires minimal care, like regular dusting, to prevent wood dust buildup. But, the wood absorbs water and is relatively difficult to dry. It is best to avoid using water when cleaning it, or a thoroughly wrung damp cloth will not hurt.

A good wood finish is the secret to keeping the long-lasting luster of zebrawood. Most wax and film finishes may not do well because of the natural oil that seeps from the zebrawood lumber. Woodworkers often choose to penetrate oil-like tung to create durable zebrawood furniture.

What to Look for When Purchasing Zebrawood

The streaks of the zebrawood lumber are not always uniform and consistent. If you are lucky, you may find several pieces that match. Consistent stripes may be available in quartersawn zebrawood. So, if you want dramatic woodwork, go for quarter pieces.

It is also important to choose lumber that is kiln dried. Zebrawood lumber is very slow to dry, and achieving an even dryness is quite tedious.

FAQs

Is zebrawood lumber workable?

Zebrawood saws well, but it is quite difficult to plane and joint since it is prone to tearout. It may work easily with carbide cutters and in slow feed and light passes, preventing damage. But generally, the lumber sands well and takes adhesive and oil finishes without trouble.

Does zebrawood have some odor?

Yes, it exudes quite an unpleasant smell when being worked, but it does not linger long.

What are the other uses for zebrawood?

Zebrawood lumber is a good choice for flooring, general construction, turnery and furniture inlays. It is popularly used in skis, tool handles and exotic guitars.

Where to Buy Zebrawood?

Exotic wood species like zebrawood lumber are unavailable in lumberyards and home centers. You can find them in some specialty lumber and online stores, but they are in limited supply. They may also be available in limited grades.

Alderfer Lumber Company keeps plenty of stock of zebrawood and other exotic lumbers. We often have them in top-grade FAS. You can call to inquire about other grade and size availabilities or for additional information.

Alderfer is committed to providing premium quality woods in a wide range of categories. We assure you that our stocks are sustainably sourced, well-preserved, and reasonably milled and kiln-dried.

Can’t find what you are looking for? Do not hesitate to call us; we will sort and update our inventory for you.