Shedua Pen Blanks

What's the wood like?
Moderately coarse, and interlocked grain that produces striped and, sometimes, curly figure. Also called Ovangkol, often sold for highly figured veneers. Hard, heavy and takes a glass-like finish.

How's the color?
The heartwood is described to vary from yellow brown to dark brown or chocolate brown, with gray to almost black stripes.

Does it go by other names?
Benge, Benzi, Bubinga, Essingang, Kevazingo, M'Penze, Mbenge, Mutenye, Olive walnut, Ovang, Waka, Mozambique

What could I use it for?
Furniture, cabinets, flooring, veneer, guitars and musical instruments, jewelry boxes, decorative projects.

What is the tree like?
Impressive mature trees are reported to reach heights of 100 to 150 feet, with trunk diameters of 4 to 7 feet. The trees are usually unbuttressed and produce boles that are reported to be well-formed, straight, and clear of branches to 50 to 100 feet.