African Blackwood
African Blackwood (Dalbergia melanoxylon)
Common Names: African Blackwood, Mpingo (Swahili), Grenadilla
Distribution: Dry savanna regions of Central and Southern Africa
Color/Appearance: Often completely black, with little or no discernible grain. Occasionally slightly lighter, with a dark brown or purplish hue. The pale yellow sapwood is usually very thin
Janka Hardness: 3,670 lbf
Density: 6.59 lb/b.f.
Allergies/Toxicity: Most common reactions simply include eye, skin and respiratory irritation
Controlled species: CITES: yes (African Blackwood is listed on CITES appendix II under the genus wide restriction on all Dalbergia species) IUCN: yes
(reported by the IUCN as being near threatened)
Common Uses: Musical instruments (guitars, oboes, clarinets, etc.), inlay, carving, tool handles and other turned objects.
