Australian Blackwood (Acacia melanoxylon), also known as Tasmanian Blackwood or Acacia Blackwood, originally comes from Tasmania, Eastern Australia. The tree has been introduced to many countries around the world and also grows in southern Europe, for example. It grows to a height of 20-30 meters and is approx. 60 - 100 cm thick. The wood is very variable in color, contrary to what the name suggests, its wood is not black at all, but mostly medium brown to reddish brown, similar to its close relative Koa (Acacia koa), it strongly resembles European walnut. This wood has a surprising silky sheen and is one of the most lustrous and chatoyant wood in the world. It displays a strong luster on planed surfaces when viewed from different angles, giving it a very elegant appearance. Decorative growth forms, such as burl, figured or interlocked growth, are much sought after and are highly valued. The wood is a cost-effective alternative to the very rare Hawaiian Koa. Australian blackwood is used for veneers, furniture, musical instruments, woodturning and other wooden objects.
