Black Limba Lumber

Black Limba Lumber for Sale

Sand a Black Limba board smooth and it almost glows. The pale gold wood lights up while the dark streaks turn deep and rich. Few woods give you that kind of contrast right out of the gate.

Where Black Limba Wood Comes From

Black Limba grows in the tropical forests of West Africa. People also call it Korina or Afara. The trees grow tall and wide, so the boards come in big, clean sizes that are easy to work with.

The "black" name points to the dark heartwood streaks. When a board has those bold gray and brown lines, it gets sold as Black Limba. Lighter, plain boards get called White Limba.

Color and Grain

The base wood runs from pale yellow to a soft tan. Through it run streaks of dark brown, gray, and near black. The grain is mostly straight with a smooth, even feel. The wood has a natural shine that finish brings out even more.

Every board looks a little different. The streaks shift and curve in their own way, so no two pieces match. That is part of why woodworkers love it for show pieces.

How Hard and Easy It Is to Work

Black Limba is a medium weight hardwood. It is softer than oak or maple, which makes it kind to your hands and your tools. It cuts clean, sands fast, and glues well. The grain stays mostly tame, so you get crisp edges without much tear out.

It takes stain and oil evenly. A clear coat is often all you need, since the wood already brings so much color on its own.

Good Projects for Black Limba Lumber Boards

These lumber boards shine in furniture, cabinets, and fine woodworking. Think tables, shelves, doors, drawer fronts, and trim. The bold streaks make a flat panel look like art. It was even a favorite for classic electric guitar bodies.

Run your hand across a finished Black Limba piece and you feel warm, glassy wood with a soft sheen. The dark lines seem to sit just under the surface, drawing your eye and inviting one more touch.