Obeche Wood Guide 2026
Triplochiton scleroxylon
Typically described as lightweight African utility wood
Wood Appearance
Natural Grain
Finished Surface
Key Takeaways
- Density: 20 lbs/ft³
- Classification: Hardwood
- Origin: Ghana;Nigeria
- Common uses include Core stock, Model making, Veneer
Quick Facts
Representative reference values — natural wood varies by growing region, moisture content and individual board.
Durability, Stability & Workability
Texture: Uniform and moderately coarse.
Workability: Extremely easy to machine and glue.
Fastening: Nails and screws well; pre-drilling generally not required.
Finishing: Absorbs finish quickly requiring a sealer.
Color change: Very little color shift upon exposure.
Insect resistance: Highly susceptible to powderpost beetles and decay.
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 Obeche. 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 typically 6 to 12 inches. | Random lengths usually 8 to 14 feet. | Request this size |
| 8/4 | 2" | 1-3/4" | Random widths typically 6 to 12 inches. | Random lengths usually 8 to 14 feet. | Request this size |
- 4/4rough 1"
- Surfaced
- 13/16" (3/4" common)
- Widths
- Random widths typically 6 to 12 inches.
- Lengths
- Random lengths usually 8 to 14 feet.
- 8/4rough 2"
- Surfaced
- 1-3/4"
- Widths
- Random widths typically 6 to 12 inches.
- Lengths
- Random lengths usually 8 to 14 feet.
Availability notes: Generally found through specialty lumber importers.
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: Creamy white to pale yellow
Grain: Straight; medium texture
Common Uses
- Core stock
- Model making
- Veneer
Key Characteristics
Also known as: Samba;Wawa;African Whitewood
Availability: In Stock
Advantages
- Janka indentation hardness: 340 lbf
- Heartwood decay rating: Non-Durable
- Sourced from Ghana;Nigeria
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 Obeche is unavailable or over budget.
Related Species
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