Okoume is a term that refers to a type of tropical hardwood tree belonging to the genus Aucoumea, native to the central regions of Africa. It is also commonly known as Gaboon, Combogala, or African mahogany. The wood derived from this tree is highly valued and renowned for its exceptional quality and versatile applications in various industries.
The term "Okoume" is also used to describe the lumber produced from this tree. Okoume wood is widely recognized for its light weight and excellent strength-to-weight ratio, which makes it highly desirable for applications where weight is a crucial factor, such as boatbuilding and aviation.
The color of Okoume heartwood typically ranges from pale pink to golden brown, often with an attractive straight grain pattern. Its texture is generally fine and even, allowing for smooth finishes. Due to its natural durability and resistance to decay, Okoume wood is also commonly used for exterior applications such as siding, windows, doors, and outdoor furniture.
Furthermore, Okoume has gained popularity among musical instrument craftsmen, as it is a preferred choice for constructing high-quality acoustic guitars, ukuleles, and other string instruments. Its combination of tonal properties, including good resonance and balanced sound, have made Okoume a sought-after option for instrument soundboards and backs.
Overall, Okoume wood, derived from the Okoume tree, offers a remarkable combination of strength, low weight, dimensional stability, and natural beauty, making it a highly valued resource in the woodworking industry.
