Zebrano timber features striking zebra-like stripes, durable hard grain, and excellent workability, ideal for furniture and decorative woodturning.

Zebrano Timber – Striking Hardwood with Unique Zebra Stripes

Overview

Zebrano, also known as Zebrawood, comes from the Microberlinia trees native to Central and West Africa. It features a light golden-yellow heartwood with dark brown to almost black streaks, creating a distinct zebra-like striped pattern. The sapwood contrasts in pale grey or cream, making the timber visually unique.

Colour and Appearance

Zebrano’s heartwood displays bold dark veins over a golden background. The streaks form linear or irregular patterns that give the wood its characteristic look. It has a medium to coarse texture with an interlocked or wavy grain, often producing a ribbon figure with alternating hard and soft grain areas.

Properties and Performance

Zebrano has a density of around 790–800 kg/m³ and a Janka hardness rating of about 1,830 lbf (8,160 N), making it a hard, durable, and dense wood. It offers moderate dimensional stability but can be prone to splitting or distortion if not dried carefully. The wood is moderately durable, susceptible to insect attack, and resistant to preservative treatments. It machines well but requires sharp tools due to its interlocked grain. Sanding is recommended for a smooth finish after planing.

Applications

Common uses include luxury furniture, cabinetry, flooring, musical instruments, paneling, veneering, and decorative turned objects. Its unique aesthetic is popular for statement pieces in interior design.

Working Characteristics

Zebrano works well with hand and machine tools but can be challenging due to its alternating grain hardness and interlocked structure. Pre-drilling is advised for nails and screws. Gluing performs satisfactorily with proper preparation. The wood can be finished to a high polish using clear fillers, stains, and oils.

Woodturning Qualities

Zebrano holds detail well and sands to a smooth finish. Its striking grain and contrasting colors create eye-catching turned items. Though challenging to work with, expert craftsmen appreciate its beauty and durability for making decorative bowls, handles, and other turned objects.

Quality You Can Trust

Hand-selected for quality and reliability, our timber offers excellent value for your woodworking projects. Now available for online ordering.

If you require any further information regarding this species, sizing, availability or more, please don’t hesitate to contact us directly and our staff will be happy to help.

Contact:
Drop by our showroom at 15 Railway Road North, Mulgrave, NSW, 2756 today.
Please inquire further for more information regarding supply, sizing and pricing via our contact email: sales@trendtimbers.com.au
See our Online Range by clicking the link below:
https://trendtimbers.com.au/product-category/timber/