Okan
Scientific name: Cylicodiscus gabunensis
Overview
Okan is an extremely dense and durable hardwood from West and Central Africa, often used in heavy construction and marine environments. It is closely related in performance to Azobe, making it a preferred material where long-term structural integrity is required.
Its high strength and resistance to decay make it suitable for demanding outdoor and industrial applications.
Quick Facts
- Common Name: Okan
- Scientific Name: Cylicodiscus gabunensis
- Region: African Hardwoods (West & Central Africa)
- Tree Size: 100–160 ft tall, 3–6 ft trunk diameter
- Average Dried Weight: 60 lbs/ft³ (960 kg/m³)
- Janka Hardness: 3,020 lbf
- Color: Yellowish brown to golden brown, darkening with age
- Grain: Interlocked
- Texture: Medium to coarse
Identification Characteristics
Okan is identified by its golden-brown coloration and high density. The grain is typically interlocked, sometimes producing subtle figure.
Key identification traits include:
- Golden to yellow-brown heartwood
- High density and weight
- Interlocked grain
- Moderate to coarse texture
Working Properties
Okan is difficult to work due to its density.
- Machines with difficulty
- Causes significant tool wear
- Pre-drilling required
- Glues and finishes moderately well
- Extremely durable
Safety Note
Dust may cause irritation. Due to hardness, proper equipment and protection are recommended.
Common Uses
Okan is commonly used in applications requiring strength and long-term durability.
- Marine construction
- Heavy structural beams
- Bridge construction
- Outdoor decking
- Industrial applications
Sustainability & Notes
Okan is not currently listed under CITES, though it is harvested in limited regions. Responsible sourcing is recommended.
Comparative Notes & Related Species
Doussie – Comparable strength and color range.
Azobe – Comparable in strength and durability, frequently used interchangeably.
Ipe – Similar performance in outdoor environments, though from South America.
Related Guides
Machining Dense Tropical Hardwoods
Important for working extremely dense species like Okan.
Density & Hardness Explained (Janka Scale Guide)
Helps contextualize its high hardness.
Understanding Interlocked vs Straight Grain
Useful when dealing with tear-out in dense woods.
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
Okan is valued as part of the ultra-dense hardwood category, often grouped with Azobe. Its weight and durability make it an important reference species for collectors focusing on structural hardwoods.
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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.
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