Boire
Scientific name: Detarium senegalense
Overview
Boire is a dense and durable West African hardwood known for its strength, toughness, and resistance to wear. Native to regions across West Africa, it is used in both structural and general woodworking applications where reliability and performance are important.
The wood typically ranges from yellow-brown to medium brown, sometimes with subtle variation. While not highly figured, Boire is valued for its solid working characteristics and dependable durability.
Quick Facts
- Common Name: Boire
- Scientific Name: Detarium senegalense
- Region: African Hardwoods
- Tree Size: 80–130 ft tall, 2–4 ft trunk diameter
- Average Dried Weight: 55–65 lbs/ft³
- Janka Hardness: 2,000 lbf
- Color: Yellow-brown to medium brown
- Grain: Straight to slightly interlocked
- Texture: Medium to coarse
- Natural Luster: Low to moderate
Identification Characteristics
Boire has a relatively uniform appearance, with warm brown tones and limited figure. Some boards may display mild variation in color or subtle grain patterns, but it is generally more understated compared to decorative hardwoods.
The grain is usually straight, though slight interlocking can occur. The texture is medium to coarse, contributing to a more utilitarian look.
Key identification traits include:
- Yellow-brown to medium brown color
- Medium to coarse texture
- Straight to slightly interlocked grain
- Dense and durable feel
- Subtle, uniform appearance
Working Properties
Boire is moderately difficult to work due to its density, but it performs well with sharp tools. It machines adequately and produces a durable surface when properly finished.
The wood can be tough on cutting edges over time, and pre-drilling is recommended for fasteners.
- Moderately difficult to machine
- Dulls tools with extended use
- Sands to a durable finish
- Good strength and wear resistance
- Pre-drilling recommended
Safety Note
Dust may cause irritation in some individuals. Use proper dust collection and protective equipment when working with Boire.
Common Uses
Boire is used in applications where durability and structural reliability are important.
- Heavy-duty furniture
- Flooring
- Structural components
- Tool handles
- Outdoor applications
- General construction
Sustainability & Notes
Boire is not among the most commonly traded hardwoods, but it is harvested regionally for both timber and local use. As with all tropical hardwoods, responsible sourcing is recommended.
Comparative Notes & Related Species
Okan offers similar strength and durability but typically has a more pronounced grain and darker coloration.
Tali is widely used in heavy-duty outdoor applications and shares similar performance characteristics, though it is often more readily available.
Azobe is heavier and more difficult to work, often used in extreme environments such as marine construction, while Boire offers a slightly more workable alternative.
Related Guides
Best Woods for Outdoor Use
Explore why dense hardwoods like Boire perform well in exterior and high-exposure environments.
Moisture Content & Long-Term Stability
Understand how proper moisture control impacts durability and performance in dense hardwoods.
Machining Dense Tropical Hardwoods
Learn techniques for working efficiently with heavy, durable woods like Boire.
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
Boire is typically collected as a representative of durable, structural African hardwoods rather than for visual appeal. It is valued for its strength and practical use.
Pieces with cleaner grain or slightly richer coloration may be more desirable for display.
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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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Contributions help fund the continued expansion of this archive while promoting sustainable forestry education and the long-term appreciation of the world’s forests.
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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:
• CMT Orange Tools 8-Inch Dado Saw Blade Set for creating clean grooves, dados, and joinery cuts in woodworking projects
https://amzn.to/4wLVIzR
• Howard Feed-N-Wax Wood Polish and Conditioner for restoring and protecting finished wood surfaces
https://amzn.to/3PDy0VS
• General Tools MMD4E Digital Moisture Meter for checking moisture content in wood and detecting potential water damage
https://amzn.to/4wMsEbz
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