The Species:

Flooring Trade Name: Wenge

Botanical Name: Milletia, laurentii

Lumber Name: Wenge

Grows In: Central Africa

Products / Wenge

Description:

Wenge is a uniform dark chocolate brown color that is used primarily for contrasting accent strips or in those areas desiring such bold dark look. Wenge is offered in selected straight grain for a very uniform look or in mixed graining, where the flat sawn figure yields a visible "flower" look. A related species from East Africa, Panga Panga, is also offered in the trade. It has the same graining as Wenge but with a more yellowish tone to it and never darkens as much as Wenge.

Color Range & Color Change:

Color Range: Wenge, once aged is very uniform in color. Selected straight grain yields the most uniform selection.

Color Change: Wenge exhibits a large degree of color change with pronounced darkening from the yellowish color it is when freshly milled to a deep chocolate/black brown when aged. This process happens within a few months.

Hardness:

Wenge is 30% harder than red oak, (1630 on the Janka scale vs. 1260 for red oak).

Where to Use:

Wenge is used wherever a strong contrast is desired when used as accent strips and may used residentially & commercially.

Stability:

Wenge is very stable.

Allergic Reaction Potential:

Wenge has been known to cause respiratory and contact dermatitis allergic reactions. Care should be taken when exposed to the dust of Wenge.

Known Finish Issues:

Oil finishes may react adversely/not dry when used on Wenge. ALWAYS test the finish you propose to use FIRST on test pieces to insure compatibility.