Durability:
Very Durable

Workability:
Not Workable

Price Rating:
Very Expensive

Weight:
880 kg/m3

Typical Tree Height:
15-18m

Trunk Diameter:
0.75-1m

Length Ranges:
1.8-4.8m

Width Ranges:
100-300mm

Description:

Wenge

The pores in Wenge are in no specific arrangement; solitary and radial multiples of 2-3. Brown mineral deposits can be present. The growth rings are distinctive but rays are not visible without magnification. Wenge displays a distinctive grain of very dark, almost black to fine yellowish stripes. The overall effect is that of a very dark wood. Wenge is used in high-end furniture and feature joinery. A great 'black and white' style contrast is to use Wenge with Maple - a really dramatic look

Further reading on Wenge timber: If you would like to read a full profile specification on Wenge timber, please visit our sister site, Any One wood, The online wood reference database. https://www.anyonewood.com/wenge/

Material Type:
Hardwood

Also Called:
Awoung, Dikela, Bokong, Mibotu, Tshikalakala, Palissandre Du Congo

Durability Notes:
Wenge is a durable wood and resistant to fungi and termites. The sapwood is permeable for preservative treatment, but the heartwood is highly resistant. Not often used externally though.

Seasoning:
The drying and seasoning of Wenge is dependant on a number of factors; the speed in which it is processed after felling and logging, the method of drying and the specific kilns or location (if air dried). Generally the care taken by those processing the wood will have an impact on its drying and seasoning. As an overview; Wenge - The wood seasons slowly and fairly challenging to dry. Small movement in use. Please note that all wood is liable to move when in service plus there can be dimensional change. The extent of this will depend on; the stability of the species itself, the conditions it is exposed to, the coating, decoration and protection. You will find more information about the suitability of this wood, for any proposed application, by using our interactive system and the filters shown.

Properties:
Wenge can be challenging to work with hand and machine tools. Sands unevenly due to differences in density between light and dark areas. Very splintery and care must be used when handling unfinished wood with bare hands, as splinters have an increased risk of infection. Very large pores can be challenging to fill if a perfectly smooth/level finish is desired.

Typical Uses:
Furniture, Cabinets, Flooring, Musical Instruments, Table Tops, Wall Paneling, Interior Trim, Carvings, Veneer.

Spiritual Properties:
Wenge is a wonderful magical tool. A relaxed energy and is the perfect tool for meditation to help slowing of thoughts. Worn as a charm to create a more even mood and centered thought. Helps calm the temper and encourage learning.

Moisture Content:
12-18% KD

Sustainability:
Wenge is considered endangered by the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species (this was last assessed in 1998 and considerable changes in awareness and more stringent forestry controls may have had an impact and the results of the latest assessment is due soon) for more information and latest updates please visit http://www.iucnredlist.org and type in the botanical name of the species into the search box. It should also be noted that one unintentional shortcoming of the Red List is that it only considers the risk of extinction; broader issues dealing with habitat destruction or deforestation are not considered. Also, it does not necessarily take into account the maturity of the trees (i.e., centuries-old trees are cut down, and subsequently replanted with saplings) Therefore we hope that further assessments will consider this long term commitment to re-growth.The reason Wenge is at risk is due to; much of its range it is threatened with over exploitation for its decorative timber.

Wood Worker's Thoughts:
Extreme contrast between hard and soft grain. Finishes well and very attractive, can be used with Maple or Ash as a contrast in colour.

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