Top 10+ Hardest Woods In The world

Presently, the world is home to over 100,000 distinct varieties of wood. The hardness of each type is identified using the Janka Wood Hardness Scale, measured in pounds-force (lbf). A higher lbf rating indicates a harder wood. In this article, we will explore the top 10+ hardest woods in the world, as determined by their Janka hardness ratings.

Australian Buloke Wood – Hardness: 5,060 lbf

Also known as Australian ironwood or Cow Oak and found throughout Australia, Australia Buloke is the hardest wood in the world.

Information about Australian Buloke wood:

Schinopsis Brasiliensis Wood – Hardness: 4,800 lbf

The wood of Schinopsis Brasiliensis is recognized as the second hardest on the standard hardness scale, boasting a rating of 4,800 lbf. This wood species originally hails from Brazil, Bolivia, and Paraguay, but it has now become exclusive to Brazil. Schinopsis Brasiliensis, also known by various names such as Barauna, Quebracho, and Chamacoco, is a flowering plant.

This hardwood mostly thrives in dry, lowland regions, specifically in dry forests and savannas, particularly favoring limestone soils. The alarming level of extinction risk for Schinopsis Brasiliensis restricts its exploitation and commercial utilization.

Information about Schinopsis Brasiliensis wood:

Teak Wood – Hardness: 4,740 lbf

Teak wood, scientifically known as Tectona Grandis, belongs to the hardwood category, yet its wood fibers exhibit a notable softness, allowing for cutting by hand. Two distinct types of teak wood, namely Myanmar teak wood and Lao teak wood, are particularly employed in the production of flooring.

Information about Teak wood:

Quebracho Wood – Hardness: 4.570 lbf

The name “Quebracho” derives from the Spanish phrase ‘quebrar hacha’, which translates to ‘axe breaker’, highlighting the wood’s remarkable hardness. Its scientific classification is within the Schinopsis spp. of the Schinopsis genus. This wood is found throughout the tropical forests of South America and is recognized as one of the heaviest and hardest woods globally.

Information about Quebracho wood:

Lignum Vitae Wood – Hardness 4,390 lbf

Lignum Vitae, known scientifically as Guaiacum officinale and G. sanctum, is primarily found in Central America and the northern regions of South America. This wood is frequently utilized for the bearings of propeller shafts on ships due to the natural oils it contains. These oils enable self-lubrication, thereby significantly enhancing the wood’s wear resistance.

Information about Lignum Vitae wood:

Gidgee Wood – Hardness 4,270 lbf

Gidgee, scientifically named Acacia Cambagei, claims the 6th position on the list of the world’s hardest woods. This dense wood is native to the arid regions of Queensland and the Northern Territory in Australia.

Information about Gidgee wood:

Snake Wood – Hardness 3,800 lbf

Snake wood, scientifically known as Brosimum guianense, is distinguished by its wood grain, which features spots and veins resembling a snake’s skin. This unique wood is primarily found in the coastal regions of northeastern South America.

Information about Snake Wood:

Vera Wood – Hardness 3,710 lbf

Vera wood, with the scientific names Bulnesia arborea and Bulnesia sarmientoi, shares many characteristics with Lignum Vitae wood. It is biologically classified within the Zygophyllaceae family and is predominantly found in Central America and Northern South America.

Information about Vera Wood:

Camel Wood – Hardness 3,680 lbf

Camel wood, also referred to as Giraffe spine wood, is native to South Africa. This wood was formerly classified under the genus A. erioloba. However, during the mid-2000s, this large genus underwent a significant reclassification, leading to its division into five separate genera. Consequently, almost all African species, including those previously categorized under A. erioloba, were reassigned to the genera Vachellia or Senegalia.

Information about Camel Wood:

African Black Wood – Hardness 3,670 lbf

African Blackwood, scientifically named Dalbergia melanoxylon and also known as African Ebony, was imported and utilized in ancient Egypt thousands of years ago. This wood has a long history of being highly valued for its density, durability, and deep, rich color.

Information about African Black Wood:

Black Ironwood – Hardness 3,660 lbf

Black Ironwood, scientifically known as Krugiodendron ferreum, stands out not only as one of the hardest woods globally but also for its exceptional weight. Regarded as the heaviest wood in both the United States and worldwide, Black Ironwood is primarily distributed in South Florida, the Caribbean, and Central America, as per the latest updates.

Information about Black Ironwood:

Katalox Wood – Hardness 3,660 lbf

Katalox wood, scientifically classified as Swartzia spp. (specifically S. cubensis), is found across Southern Mexico, Central America, and Northern South America. Renowned for its distinct properties and dark hue, Katalox serves as a notable substitute for ebony. Moreover, it is commonly recognized by the name Mexican Royal wood.

Information about Katalox Wood:

If you want to know any more information about wood or need to import African wood, please contact K-Timber immediately. We are currently among the top African wood suppliers, established in 1996, and through nearly 30 years of construction and development, K-Timber has served more than 30 countries. We have a team of wood experts with more than 20 years of experience, ready to answer all questions and advise on the right types of Angola wood for your needs:

• ADDRESS VIET NAM (K-TIMBER): 169 Nguyen Ngoc Vu street, Cau Giay District, Hanoi.
• ADDRESS ANGOLA ( HATC WOOD AFRICAN): Av. Pedro de Castro Van-Dúnem Loy, Luanda, Angola.
• Phone: (+84) 833333914
• Email: [email protected]