Bubinga Wood Guide 2026
Guibourtia spp.
Typically described as luxurious figured African hardwood
Wood Appearance
Natural Grain
Finished Surface
Key Takeaways
- Density: 56 lbs/ft³
- Classification: Hardwood
- Origin: Gabon;Cameroon
- Common uses include Luxury furniture, Veneer, Turnings
Quick Facts
Representative reference values — natural wood varies by growing region, moisture content and individual board.
Durability, Stability & Workability
Texture: The wood has a fine to medium, uniform texture.
Workability: It is quite hard but usually machines well if tool edges are kept sharp.
Fastening: Pre-drilling recommended for screws and nails.
Finishing: It takes a high-quality polish and works well with most standard finishes.
Color change: The pinkish-red heartwood darkens to a deep reddish-brown with age.
Insect resistance: It is highly resistant to both rot and insect infestations.
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 Bubinga. 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) | Often available in wide, high-quality boards or slabs. | Random lengths are available, with long, clear boards often sourced for musical instruments. | Request this size |
| 8/4 | 2" | 1-3/4" | Often available in wide, high-quality boards or slabs. | Random lengths are available, with long, clear boards often sourced for musical instruments. | Request this size |
| 12/4 | 3" | 2-3/4" | Often available in wide, high-quality boards or slabs. | Random lengths are available, with long, clear boards often sourced for musical instruments. | Request this size |
- 4/4rough 1"
- Surfaced
- 13/16" (3/4" common)
- Widths
- Often available in wide, high-quality boards or slabs.
- Lengths
- Random lengths are available, with long, clear boards often sourced for musical instruments.
- 8/4rough 2"
- Surfaced
- 1-3/4"
- Widths
- Often available in wide, high-quality boards or slabs.
- Lengths
- Random lengths are available, with long, clear boards often sourced for musical instruments.
- 12/4rough 3"
- Surfaced
- 2-3/4"
- Widths
- Often available in wide, high-quality boards or slabs.
- Lengths
- Random lengths are available, with long, clear boards often sourced for musical instruments.
Availability notes: Limited availability through high-end exotic lumber dealers.
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: Pink to reddish brown; purple tones possible
Grain: Straight to interlocked; fine texture
Common Uses
- Luxury furniture
- Veneer
- Turnings
- Musical instruments
Key Characteristics
Also known as: African Rosewood;Kevazingo
Availability: In Stock
Advantages
- Janka indentation hardness: 1,980 lbf
- Heartwood decay rating: Very Durable
- Sourced from Gabon;Cameroon
- Excellent density for wear resistance
Considerations
- Pre-drilling recommended for fasteners
- 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 Bubinga is unavailable or over budget.
- Rosewood
- Padauk2,170 lbf Janka
- African Mahogany
Related Species
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Calculators & Tools
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