Content Menu
● Botanical Profile and Distribution
● Physical and Mechanical Properties
● Appearance and Aesthetic Qualities
● Okoume Plywood: Features and Applications
● Advantages and Disadvantages
>> Advantages
● Sustainability and Environmental Impact
● Comparison: Okoume vs. Other Woods
● Tips for Working with Okoume
● FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions about Okoume Wood
>> 1. What makes Okoume wood ideal for marine plywood?
>> 2. Is Okoume wood durable for outdoor use?
>> 3. How does Okoume compare to mahogany?
>> 4. What are the most common applications of Okoume wood?
>> 5. Is Okoume wood environmentally sustainable?
Okoume wood, often referred to as Gaboon or Okoume Mahogany, is a highly valued hardwood from Central and West Africa. Renowned for its light weight, attractive appearance, and versatile applications, Okoume has become a staple in industries ranging from marine construction to fine furniture. This comprehensive guide explores the origins, properties, uses, advantages, and challenges of Okoume wood, offering insights for professionals, hobbyists, and anyone interested in quality timber.
Okoume wood stands out as one of the most popular lightweight hardwoods available today. Its fine grain, smooth texture, and warm color make it a favorite for high-end furniture, decorative veneers, and especially marine plywood. Despite being classified as a hardwood, Okoume is softer than many of its peers, which contributes to its exceptional workability[3][5][7].
Scientific Name: *Aucoumea klaineana*
Common Names: Okoume, Gaboon, Gaboon Mahogany, Acoume, Zouga[5][7][11]
Okoume trees are native to the rainforests of Central and West Africa, thriving primarily in Gabon, Equatorial Guinea, Cameroon, and the Republic of Congo[3][4][5][11]. These trees are fast-growing and can reach impressive heights of 100-130 feet (30-40 meters) with trunk diameters up to 6 feet (1.8 meters)[5][7].
| Property | Value/Description |
|---|---|
| Density (12% MC) | ~430 kg/m³ (27 lbs/ft⊃3;) |
| Janka Hardness | 400 lbf (1,790 N) |
| Modulus of Rupture | 10,870 lbf/in⊃2; (75 MPa) |
| Elastic Modulus | 1,228,000 lbf/in⊃2; (8.47 GPa) |
| Crushing Strength | 5,250 lbf/in⊃2; (36.2 MPa) |
| Shrinkage (Radial/Tang) | 4.6% / 7.1% |
| Specific Gravity | 0.35 (basic), 0.43 (12% MC) |
Okoume is notably lightweight for a hardwood, which is a key reason for its popularity in applications where weight is a concern, such as boat building and aircraft interiors[2][3][5][7].
- Color: Heartwood ranges from pale pink to light brown or reddish-brown, darkening with age and exposure to light. Sapwood is narrow and grayish-white, not clearly demarcated from the heartwood[5][9][11].
- Grain: Typically straight, but may be slightly wavy or interlocked. When quarter-sawn, it can display attractive striped or mottled figures[4][5][9].
- Texture: Medium to fine, with a natural luster[5][9].
- Aging: The wood darkens over time, developing a rich, mahogany-like appearance[1][5][7].
The visual appeal of Okoume is one of its strongest selling points, especially for decorative applications.
Okoume is celebrated for its excellent workability:
- Machining: Easy to cut, shape, and sand due to its softness and straight grain[2][3][7][9].
- Finishing: Takes stains, paints, and varnishes exceptionally well, allowing for a premium finish[2][7][8].
- Bending: Can be bent or curved, making it suitable for complex shapes in boatbuilding and furniture[7][10].
- Gluing and Nailing: Bonds well with adhesives and can be nailed without pre-boring[11].
However, due to its softness, Okoume can be prone to dents and scratches if not properly protected[5][7].
Okoume's versatility is evident in its widespread use across various industries:
- Marine Industry: The top choice for marine plywood, used in boat hulls, decks, and ship interiors due to its light weight and water-resistant qualities when properly treated[2][3][4][7][10].
- Furniture: Ideal for high-end furniture, cabinetry, and decorative wall panels thanks to its smooth surface and attractive grain[2][3][7][10].
- Interior Design: Used for paneling, ceilings, and wall coverings in both residential and commercial projects[3][9].
- Veneer: Frequently sliced into thin sheets for use as veneer on plywood, doors, and furniture[4][7][10].
- Musical Instruments: Sometimes used in the construction of guitars and other instruments for its tonal properties and workability[5][6].
- Automotive and Aircraft: Utilized in specialty vehicle interiors and aircraft where weight reduction is crucial[2][3].
Okoume plywood is perhaps the most famous product derived from this species. It is manufactured by gluing together thin layers of Okoume veneer, often with a core of pine, poplar, or other hardwoods to enhance strength[2][7][10].
Key Features:
- Lightweight: Makes it ideal for marine and aviation use.
- Strong and Flexible: High strength-to-weight ratio and easy to bend, perfect for curved structures[2][7][10].
- Aesthetic Appeal: Smooth, fine-grained surface that finishes beautifully for visible applications[2][7][10].
- Water Resistance: When treated with marine-grade finishes or epoxy, Okoume plywood becomes highly water-resistant, suitable for demanding environments[2][3][7][10].
Applications:
- Boatbuilding (hulls, decks, interiors)
- Furniture and cabinetry
- Wall paneling and ceilings
- Vehicle and aircraft interiors
- Decorative veneers
- Lightweight: Easy to handle and reduces overall structure weight[2][3][7].
- Workability: Cuts, shapes, and finishes with ease[2][3][7][9].
- Aesthetic Value: Attractive color and grain, darkens to a rich hue over time[1][5][7].
- Versatility: Suitable for a wide range of applications, from marine to decorative uses[2][3][7][10].
- Affordability: Generally less expensive than many other hardwoods[3][7].
- Durability: Not naturally resistant to rot, termites, or fungi; must be treated for outdoor or marine use[1][5][7][10].
- Softness: More prone to dents, scratches, and wear compared to harder woods[5][7].
- Sustainability Concerns: Overexploitation has led to its listing as “vulnerable” on the IUCN Red List, though some regions enforce strict harvesting limits for sustainability[5][7][10].
Okoume is not listed under CITES, but it is considered vulnerable due to overharvesting and habitat loss[5][7][10]. In Gabon, strict regulations limit annual harvests and require local processing to support the economy and sustainability efforts[10]. Responsible sourcing and certification (such as FSC) are crucial for minimizing environmental impact and ensuring the future availability of Okoume wood.
| Feature | Okoume | Mahogany | Birch | Teak |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | Very light | Medium | Medium | Heavy |
| Durability | Moderate (treated) | High | Moderate | Very high |
| Workability | Excellent | Good | Good | Moderate |
| Water Resistance | Good (treated) | Good | Moderate | Excellent |
| Price | Moderate | High | Moderate | Very high |
| Appearance | Pinkish-brown, darkens | Reddish-brown | Pale, uniform | Golden brown |
Okoume is often chosen when a combination of light weight, good workability, and attractive appearance is desired, especially where cost is a consideration[2][3][7][10].
- Sealing: Always seal Okoume used in exterior or marine applications with epoxy or varnish to prevent moisture ingress and rot[7][10].
- Finishing: Sand surfaces smoothly before applying stains or varnishes for the best appearance[2][7][8].
- Cutting: Use sharp tools to avoid woolly surfaces; Okoume's softness makes it easy to machine but also prone to tear-out if tools are dull[5][7][11].
- Fastening: Pre-drilling is usually not necessary, but avoid excessive force to prevent splitting[11].
- Sustainability: Source from certified suppliers to ensure responsible harvesting and support local economies[10].
Okoume wood is a standout choice for anyone seeking a lightweight, attractive, and versatile hardwood. Its unique combination of workability, visual appeal, and adaptability makes it a favorite in marine construction, furniture making, and interior design. While it requires proper treatment for durability, especially in demanding environments, Okoume's benefits far outweigh its drawbacks for many applications.
As with any natural resource, responsible sourcing and sustainable practices are essential to preserving Okoume for future generations. Whether you're a boatbuilder, furniture maker, or DIY enthusiast, Okoume wood offers a compelling blend of beauty, performance, and value.
Okoume's lightweight nature, combined with its ability to resist moisture when properly treated, makes it an excellent choice for marine plywood. Its flexibility allows it to be shaped into boat hulls and decks, while its smooth surface provides an attractive finish[2][3][7][10].
Okoume is not naturally durable against rot, termites, or fungi. For outdoor or marine use, it must be sealed with epoxy, varnish, or other protective coatings to ensure longevity and prevent moisture damage[1][5][7][10].
While Okoume is sometimes called “Okoume Mahogany,” it is not a true mahogany. Okoume is lighter, softer, and less durable than genuine mahogany but offers similar aesthetic qualities at a lower cost. It is best used where weight and workability are priorities[5][10].
Okoume is widely used for marine plywood, boatbuilding, furniture, cabinetry, decorative veneers, wall paneling, and occasionally for musical instruments and vehicle interiors[2][3][4][5][7][10].
Okoume is listed as “vulnerable” due to overexploitation and habitat loss. However, some regions, such as Gabon, enforce strict harvesting quotas and require local processing to promote sustainability. Always look for certified Okoume wood to ensure responsible sourcing[5][7][10].
[1] https://www.fair-and-precious.org/en/species-of-certified-tropical-timber/53/okoume
[2] https://aewwood.com/what-is-okoume-plywood-a-complete-guide-to-its-uses-and-benefits/
[3] https://aewwood.com/what-is-okoume-timber-a-guide-to-this-versatile-wood/
[4] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CRqrDyx-NnI
[5] https://www.wood-database.com/okoume/
[6] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qDUkXtb6GrE
[7] https://wknightconsulting.com/okoume-wood-properties-and-uses/
[8] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N1tQyfbyPws
[9] https://www.madar.com/en_SA/okoume-wood.html
[10] https://forestplywood.com/blog/plywood-uses/what-is-okoume-plywood-and-how-can-i-use-it/
[11] https://www.asalawood.com/product-page/okoume-wood
[12] https://www.preciouswoods.com/domains/preciouswoods_com/data/free_docs/Technical_okoume_en.pdf
[13] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aucoumea_klaineana
[14] https://www.cutr.com/articles/complete-guide-okoume-multiplex-uses-benefits-best-practices
[15] https://aewwood.com/the-rising-popularity-of-okoume-timber-in-eco-friendly-architecture/
[16] https://tropix.cirad.fr/FichiersComplementaires/EN/Africa/OKOUME%202024.pdf
[17] https://www.cutr.com/articles/comparing-okoume-ash-beech-wood-interior-design
[18] https://www.hannuowood.com/info/advantages-of-okoume-plywood-83626921.html
[19] https://www.woodbois.com/products/lumber/okoume/
[20] https://www.cutr.com/articles/why-okoume-marine-plywood-ideal-choice
[21] https://www.lesserknowntimberspecies.com/species/okoume
[22] https://infrared-sauna.com.au/blog/5-reasons-why-okoume-is-the-best-wood-for-infrared-saunas
[23] https://www.cookwoods.com/collections/okoume
[24] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6I3uWzQHmFE
[25] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CMMqvvKNyww
[26] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tmykuoa5rkk
[27] https://www.tiktok.com/@glveneer/video/7081296220291091758
[28] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oU6UFJmNWoM
[29] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LkHM4SdSAPw
[30] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1n-iiHonKhE
