Black Limba Wood Guide 2026
Terminalia superba
Typically described as lightweight with striking dark figuring
Wood Appearance
Natural Grain
Finished Surface
Key Takeaways
- Density: 28 lbs/ft³
- Classification: Hardwood
- Origin: Ivory Coast;Ghana
- Common uses include Furniture, Cabinetry, Paneling
Quick Facts
Representative reference values — natural wood varies by growing region, moisture content and individual board.
Durability, Stability & Workability
Texture: It features a medium to coarse, open texture with straight or interlocked grain.
Workability: It works easily with hand and machine tools but requires sharp blades to prevent tearing.
Fastening: Nails and screws well; pre-drilling generally not required.
Finishing: It glues well and takes finishes effectively, though filler is often needed for open pores.
Color change: The wood can darken or shift slightly toward a richer brown with light exposure.
Insect resistance: The heartwood has moderate resistance to termites but is not durable against rot.
Ratings and published values are representative reference figures. Natural wood varies with growing region, moisture content and individual boards — treat them as guidance, not guarantees.
Common Sizes & Availability
Typical market availability for Black Limba. Lumberama is a sourcing marketplace — actual stock, widths and lengths vary by supplier. Request a quote to confirm what's available for your project.
| Thickness | Rough | Typical surfaced | Typical widths | Common lengths | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4/4 | 1" | 13/16" (3/4" common) | Random widths are common for imported exotic lumber. | Random lengths vary significantly based on log sourcing. | Request this size |
| 8/4 | 2" | 1-3/4" | Random widths are common for imported exotic lumber. | Random lengths vary significantly based on log sourcing. | Request this size |
- 4/4rough 1"
- Surfaced
- 13/16" (3/4" common)
- Widths
- Random widths are common for imported exotic lumber.
- Lengths
- Random lengths vary significantly based on log sourcing.
- 8/4rough 2"
- Surfaced
- 1-3/4"
- Widths
- Random widths are common for imported exotic lumber.
- Lengths
- Random lengths vary significantly based on log sourcing.
Availability notes: Available primarily through specialty exotic hardwood suppliers.
How lumber sizes are described
- Rough (4/4, 8/4…)
- Hardwood thickness in quarters of an inch as sawn, before surfacing. 4/4 = 1" rough.
- Surfaced (S2S/S4S)
- Thickness after planing. 4/4 typically finishes at 13/16" or 3/4".
- Nominal vs. actual
- Construction lumber is sold by nominal size; a 2x6 measures about 1-1/2" x 5-1/2".
- Random width / length
- Most hardwood is sold as it comes from the log — widths and lengths vary within a range rather than being fixed.
Color & Grain
Color: Light yellowish brown with grey to black streaks
Grain: Straight to interlocked; coarse texture
Common Uses
- Furniture
- Cabinetry
- Paneling
- Musical instruments
Key Characteristics
Also known as: Korina;Black Korina;Afara
Availability: In Stock
Advantages
- Janka indentation hardness: 490 lbf
- Heartwood decay rating: Moderately Durable
- Sourced from Ivory Coast;Ghana
Considerations
- Hardness does not establish decay resistance or structural design strength
- Availability may vary
Frequently Asked Questions
Alternatives to Consider
Species commonly specified for similar applications when Black Limba is unavailable or over budget.
- African Mahogany
- Walnut1,010 lbf Janka
- Poplar540 lbf Janka
Related Species
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