OKOUME - Aucoumea klaineana

Common Name(s): Okoume
Scientific Name: Aucumea kalineana
Distribution:  Central Africa
Tree Size: 100-130 ft (30-40 m) tall, 3-6 ft (1-1.8 m) trunk diameter
Average Dried Weight: 27 lbs/ft3 (430 kg/m3)
Crushing Strength: 5,250 lbf/in2 (36.2 MPa)
Shrinkage: Radial: 4.6%, Tangential: 7.1%, Volumetric: 12.2%, T/R Ratio: 1.5

Okoumé is considered perhaps the finest construction plywood now available especially where lighter weight is needed. Its attractive appearance means that it is often used decoratively as the top surface veneer in paneling, in solid form, luxury or other high value items. The wood's open grain, flexibility and light weight make it a popular choice. ​

Common Uses: ​​​Furniture, veneer, plywood, boatbuilding, musical instruments, and interior millwork.

Color/Appearance: Heartwood ranges from a pale pink to light brown. Color darkens with age. Narrow heartwood is grayish white, not clearly demarcated from heartwood.

Grain/Texture: ​​​Grain is straight wavy or slightly interlocked. Texture is medium, with good natural luster.

​​Rot Resistance: Because Okoume plywood is not rot-resistant, it must be thoroughly sealed to prevent moisture from penetrating. Okoume panels and projects made with them are normally painted of finished epoxy and vanish to prevent potential problems caused by exposure to the moisture typical of marine and aquatic environments.