Black Figured Limba

Black Figured Limba

---

Africa

West and Central Africa, tropical rain forest along the coast from Guinea to Angola. Limba wood always has a dark heart. Sold as normal Limba if the dark wood is less than 15 % of the diameter concerned. If 1/3 or more of the diameter shows as this dark heart, the wood is marketed as Black Limba. This special form of figure rarely develops though and is much sought after. Mostly single pieces. No regular supply possible.

For all purposes in exclusive interior architectural woodwork, only in those countries though where wood in figured form is popular. Concerning Central Europe, Black Figured Limba is hardly known.

In general, Limba is plain, of a pale yellow colour and is often used as veneer for doors (easy to apply paint). Black Limba is sometimes substituted for Walnut and in this figured form a log can be considered a unicum if it has a heart portion of much higher proportion than normal.

Presents no problem. Wood can be moulded, planed, screwed and nailed well.

Good and fast. Dark heart leads to longer drying time.

No problems and the wood takes well to stains and varnishes.

Causes no difficulties.