Black Cabbage Bark
Scientific name: Lonchocarpus rugosus
Overview
Black Cabbage Bark is a lesser-known hardwood native to Central America. It is valued for its durability and strength, as well as its darker coloration compared to other species in the same region. While not widely traded internationally, it is used locally for structural and utility purposes.
Quick Facts
- Common Name: Black Cabbage Bark
- Scientific Name: Lonchocarpus rugosus
- Region: Central American Hardwoods
- Tree Size: 50–80 ft tall, 2–3 ft trunk diameter
- Average Dried Weight: 52 lbs/ft³ (830 kg/m³)
- Janka Hardness: 1,900 lbf
- Color: Dark brown to nearly black
- Grain: Interlocked
- Texture: Medium
Identification Characteristics
Black Cabbage Bark is known for its darker coloration and dense structure. It may show subtle grain variation due to its interlocked pattern.
Key identification traits include:
- Dark brown to near black coloration
- Interlocked grain
- Medium texture
- Dense and durable structure
Working Properties
This species can be somewhat difficult to work due to its density and grain structure. Proper tools and preparation are important.
- Moderately difficult to machine
- Prone to tearout with interlocked grain
- Glues and finishes well with preparation
- Good durability for demanding applications
Safety Note
Wood dust may cause irritation. Use proper dust collection and respiratory protection.
Common Uses
Black Cabbage Bark is used in applications requiring durability and strength.
- Structural applications
- Tool handles
- Flooring
- General construction
Sustainability & Notes
This species is not widely exported but is used regionally. As with all tropical hardwoods, responsible sourcing is recommended.
Comparative Notes & Related Species
Machiche – A strong and durable hardwood with similar use in structural and heavy-duty applications.
Nargusta – A moderately dense hardwood used for general construction and utility purposes.
Goncalo Alves – A dense hardwood with greater visual figure but similar strength characteristics.
Related Guides
Machining Dense Tropical Hardwoods – Explains challenges when working with dense species.
Preventing Tear-Out in Interlocked Grain – Covers techniques for handling difficult grain patterns.
Moisture Content & Long-Term Stability – Explains how the wood behaves over time in different environments.
Compare Wood Properties
See how this species ranks in density and hardness using our Wood Density & Janka Hardness Chart. You can also explore Hardest Woods, Softest Woods, and Most Dense Woods for quick comparisons.
Collector Notes
Black Cabbage Bark is a good collector species for representing lesser-known Central American hardwoods. Its darker color and durability make it a useful comparison piece alongside more widely known species.
Share Your Photos of This Species
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When submitting photos, please include the common name, scientific name (if known), a brief description, and any information you would like us to share with the image.
Wood Sample Collection
This species is part of an ongoing effort to document and preserve wood samples from around the world.
Learn more about contributing to the collection:
Resources
Authoritative botanical and forestry references used in compiling information about this species include:
• USDA Forest Service – Wood Handbook: Wood as an Engineering Material
https://www.fpl.fs.usda.gov/products/publications/
• The Wood Database – Global reference for wood identification, physical properties, and woodworking characteristics
https://www.wood-database.com/
• Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew – Plants of the World Online – Botanical taxonomy and species distribution database
https://powo.science.kew.org/
• International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN Red List) – Global conservation status assessments
https://www.iucnredlist.org/
• Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) – International trade regulations for protected plant species
https://cites.org/
Additional forestry publications, academic research papers, and regional timber studies may also be referenced where available.
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Availability & Where to Buy
Exotic hardwood availability can vary significantly depending on region, sustainability regulations, and supplier inventory.
As this archive grows, recommended suppliers and specialty wood retailers will be listed here to help woodworkers locate responsibly sourced material.
Lumber Suppliers:
Availability varies — see the Where to Buy Exotic Woods page for current sources.
Related Tools & Products:
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