Bubinga - An African Gem for Your Dining Table

Our blog has constantly featured wood slabs that would make great dining tables. This includes an array of wood species that would be a good fit for any interior such as the the sturdy Leadwood and the versatile Oak.

In that same vein, we shall head to Africa to unearth another exotic wood species - Bubinga. One of the crown jewels among African wood, Bubinga is prized by furniture makers, especially when it comes to solid wood dining tables. Let’s find out why!

Origins

Bubinga trees originate from central Africa in countries such as Cameroon, Gabon, and Ivory Coast. It is one of the larger tree species in Africa reaching incredible heights of up to three meters! These massive trees are very popular among the locals as the bark is believed to possess special properties that can heal cuts and bruises.

Apart from the local mystique that surrounds this timber, it also gained popularity globally as well. In the 1700s, Bubinga wood was widely imported into Europe to be part of the French Renaissance furniture movement. Its deep red tone was very popular among French Aristocrats and furniture makers alike. However, Bubinga isn’t just known for its beautiful appearance. Its strength and durability are also sought after by woodworkers. Thus, Bubinga wood is frequently used in heavy carpentry work such as the construction of railway sleepers, cabinets, and even golf club heads!

Durability

One of the most common indicators of durability in the industry is the Janka scale which ranges from 0 to 4,000. A ranking of 0 means the lumber is very soft and not suitable for dining table usage. A ranking of 4,000 means that the lumber is extremely hard and difficult to mill. Bubinga wood has a hardness rating of 2,690 placing it in the acceptable range for solid wood dining tables such as Walnut.

Bubinga is also famed for its strong resistance to insect infestations such as termite attacks and fungal decay. This is due to special properties that are inherent in the timber’s oil. Furthermore, Bubinga’s high density ensures that it does not split or dent easily too!

With its exceptional sturdiness and natural properties that make it impermeable to insect infestations, Bubinga wood has all the qualities to stand the rigours of a dining table.

Colour & Appearance

Bubinga wood has a beautiful reddish-brown heartwood that contrasts beautifully with its whitish-brown sapwood. Its deep red hue is an embodiment of rustic elegance that is sure to be a conversation starter during dinner parties. It is also suitable for homeowners looking for a table to match the warm colour tone of their interior.

Bubinga’s wood grains often have a “waterfall-like” pattern that runs throughout the slab. This creates a unique look that is rarely seen in other wood species, making it a prized possession for wood enthusiasts.

In Conclusion…

Bubinga is an exotic wood species that is the perfect blend of lustrous beauty and hardiness. Its unique grains and colour tone will stand out and add life to any interior space. Moreover, its natural properties and durability make it an excellent choice of material for a solid wood dining table.

If you’re interested in checking out this wood slab, please head down to our showrooms today. We’d love to share our knowledge on wood slabs with you.