WoodSwatch

Botanical Profile

Acacia melanoxylon is a fast-growing evergreen tree native to eastern Australia, particularly Tasmania and southeastern mainland Australia. It typically reaches 20-30 meters in height with a trunk diameter of 1 meter or more. The tree has dark, fissured bark and produces cream-colored flowers.

Physical Properties

The heartwood varies from golden brown to dark brown with reddish tones, often featuring attractive darker streaks or fiddle-back figure. Sapwood is pale yellow and clearly demarcated. Density of approximately 640 kg/m³ when dried, with a Janka hardness of 1,160 lbf. The wood has good dimensional stability and moderate natural durability. Grain is typically straight but can be interlocked or wavy, producing highly decorative figure.

Workshop Notes

Blunting Effect

Moderate - contains silica which can dull cutting edges

Gluing Advice

Good gluing properties with standard wood adhesives

Finishing

Excellent - responds beautifully to all finishes, particularly oils and lacquers that enhance the natural figure

Steam Bending

Good steam bending characteristics, suitable for curved work

Historical Context

Australian Blackwood has been used by indigenous Australians for thousands of years for tools and implements. European settlers quickly recognized its value, and it became highly sought after for fine furniture and boat building in the 19th century. It gained particular fame as a tonewood for guitars and has been used extensively in instrument making since the mid-20th century.

Australian Blackwood