Zebrawood Wood Guide 2026
Microberlinia brazzavillensis
Typically described as boldly striped African hardwood
Wood Appearance

Natural Grain

Finished Surface
Key Takeaways
- Density: 35 lbs/ft³
- Classification: Hardwood
- Origin: Cameroon;Gabon
- Common uses include Accent furniture, Veneer, Inlays
Quick Facts
Representative reference values — natural wood varies by growing region, moisture content and individual board.
Durability, Stability & Workability
Texture: Texture is coarse with an open pore structure.
Workability: It is prone to tear-out during planing and requires sharp cutters.
Fastening: Pre-drilling recommended for screws and nails.
Finishing: Open pores require substantial filling for a glass-smooth finish.
Color change: The light and dark bands darken over time with exposure to light.
Insect resistance: It is moderately resistant to fungal and insect attack.
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 Zebrawood. 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 from 4 to 8 inches are most common. | Random lengths from 6 to 10 feet are typical. | Request this size |
| 8/4 | 2" | 1-3/4" | Random widths from 4 to 8 inches are most common. | Random lengths from 6 to 10 feet are typical. | Request this size |
- 4/4rough 1"
- Surfaced
- 13/16" (3/4" common)
- Widths
- Random widths from 4 to 8 inches are most common.
- Lengths
- Random lengths from 6 to 10 feet are typical.
- 8/4rough 2"
- Surfaced
- 1-3/4"
- Widths
- Random widths from 4 to 8 inches are most common.
- Lengths
- Random lengths from 6 to 10 feet are typical.
Availability notes: Available through high-end exotic lumber 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 golden with dark brown-black streaks
Grain: Interlocked; coarse texture
Common Uses
- Accent furniture
- Veneer
- Inlays
Key Characteristics
Also known as: Zingana;Zebrano
Availability: In Stock
Advantages
- Janka indentation hardness: 1,830 lbf
- Heartwood decay rating: Durable
- Sourced from Cameroon;Gabon
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 Zebrawood is unavailable or over budget.
- Wenge1,630 lbf Janka
- Rosewood
Related Species
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