Panga Panga
Scientific name: Millettia stuhlmannii
Overview
Panga Panga is a dense African hardwood known for its dark coloration and fine, streaked grain. Native to East Africa, it is often compared to Wenge due to its similar appearance, though it typically presents a slightly finer texture and more uniform structure.
It is used in furniture, flooring, and decorative woodworking where a dark, durable wood is desired.
Quick Facts
- Common Name: Panga Panga
- Scientific Name: Millettia stuhlmannii
- Region: African Hardwoods
- Tree Size: 60–100 ft tall, 2–3 ft trunk diameter
- Average Dried Weight: 50–55 lbs/ft³
- Janka Hardness: 1,930 lbf
- Color: Dark brown to nearly black with lighter streaks
- Grain: Straight to slightly interlocked
- Texture: Medium
- Natural Luster: Low to moderate
Identification Characteristics
Panga Panga is most recognized by its dark coloration combined with subtle lighter streaking. The wood can appear almost black in some pieces, especially when finished.
The grain is typically straight, though slight interlocking may occur. Compared to Wenge, the grain is usually finer and less coarse.
Key identification traits include:
- Dark brown to near-black color
- Subtle lighter streaks
- Medium texture (finer than Wenge)
- Straight to slightly interlocked grain
- Clean but bold appearance
Working Properties
Panga Panga can be somewhat difficult to work due to its density, but it machines well with sharp tools. It sands to a smooth surface and finishes nicely, enhancing its dark tone.
It may dull tools over time, and pre-drilling is recommended for fasteners.
- Moderately difficult to machine
- Dulls cutting edges
- Sands well
- Takes finish cleanly
- Good dimensional stability
Safety Note
Dust may cause irritation. Use proper dust collection and protective equipment when working with this wood.
Common Uses
Panga Panga is used where a dark, durable hardwood is desired.
- Furniture
- Flooring
- Cabinetry
- Decorative panels
- Turning projects
- Veneer
Sustainability & Notes
Panga Panga is not as widely traded as some other African hardwoods but is still commercially harvested. Responsible sourcing is recommended.
Comparative Notes & Related Species
Wenge is the closest visual comparison, though it typically has a coarser texture and more pronounced grain contrast.
African Blackwood is much denser and darker, often appearing nearly black with a finer texture.
Mutenye (Guibourtia spp.) offers a lighter tone with more figure, contrasting with the darker and more uniform look of Panga Panga.
Related Guides
Understanding Wood Strength: What Makes Wood Strong?
Learn how density contributes to durability in woods like Panga Panga.
Machining Dense Tropical Hardwoods
Explore techniques for working with heavy woods without damaging tools or surfaces.
Best Woods for Furniture Making
See why dense, stable hardwoods like Panga Panga are used in furniture applications.
Wenge vs. Ebony
Explore Wenge vs. Ebony to compare dark exotic hardwoods in color, density, hardness, workability, and high-end woodworking applications.
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
Panga Panga is a desirable addition to collections due to its dark color and resemblance to Wenge. Pieces with strong contrast between dark base color and lighter streaking are especially valued.
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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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Router Bits Set of 15 Pieces 1/4 Inch Woodwork Tools for Beginners for edge profiles, trimming, joinery, and general woodworking projects
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REXBETI 25Pcs Metal File Set, Premium Grade T12 Drop Forged Alloy Steel for shaping, smoothing, carving, and detail finishing work
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