Wenge

Wenge’s Color and Appearance

Wenge, native to Central Africa, is a dense hardwood known for its dark brown to almost black color, often featuring contrasting light streaks and a coarse texture with a straight grain. Highly durable and resistant to wear, wenge can be challenging to work with due to its hardness and tendency to splinter, but it finishes exceptionally well, with a smooth, polished surface that highlights its unique pattern. Wenge is prized for its striking appearance, strength, and versatility in the luxury furniture trade.

Grain and Texture

Grain is straight, with a very coarse texture and low natural luster. The sapwood is often a pale yellow.

Workability and Staining Characteristics

It can be difficult to work with hand and machine tools. Dull tool edges quickly. It sands unevenly due to differences in density between light and dark areas. It is prone to tearing out and is known for being splintery.