Queensland Silky Oak
Scientific name: Cardwellia sublimis
Overview
Queensland Silky Oak is an attractive Australian hardwood native to the tropical rainforests of northeastern Queensland. It is known for its striking grain patterns and distinctive silky appearance when quarter-sawn, which produces a dramatic lace-like figure.
The wood has long been prized for decorative furniture, cabinetry, and paneling. Its combination of moderate hardness, good stability, and highly figured grain makes it a favorite among woodworkers seeking visually interesting timbers.
Quick Facts
- Common Name: Queensland Silky Oak
- Scientific Name: Cardwellia sublimis
- Region: Oceania & Pacific Hardwoods (Australia – Queensland rainforests)
- Tree Size: 80–120 ft tall, 2–4 ft trunk diameter
- Average Dried Weight: 35 lbs/ft³ (560 kg/m³)
- Janka Hardness: 900 lbf
- Color: Light golden to reddish brown with prominent ray fleck
- Grain: Interlocked
- Texture: Medium
Identification Characteristics
Queensland Silky Oak heartwood ranges from golden brown to reddish brown. The wood is well known for its interlocked grain, which produces a highly decorative flecked figure when quarter-sawn. This lace-like figure is one of the defining visual traits of the species.
Key identification traits include:
- Golden to reddish brown color
- Interlocked grain
- Distinctive lace figure when quarter-sawn
- Medium texture
Working Properties
Queensland Silky Oak machines well with both hand and power tools, though the interlocked grain can occasionally cause tear-out during planing. The wood sands smoothly and takes finishes exceptionally well.
- Machines well with sharp tools
- Interlocked grain may cause tear-out
- Sands and polishes well
- Excellent finishing qualities
Safety Note
Dust from Queensland Silky Oak may cause mild skin or respiratory irritation in some individuals. Proper dust collection and protective equipment are recommended.
Common Uses
Queensland Silky Oak is widely used in decorative woodworking due to its dramatic grain figure and warm color.
- Furniture
- Cabinetry
- Decorative veneer
- Paneling
- Turned objects
- Carving
Sustainability & Notes
The species grows naturally in the rainforests of northeastern Australia. Responsible forestry practices help ensure that harvesting remains sustainable while protecting native ecosystems.
Comparative Notes & Related Species
Silky Oak (Grevillea robusta) – Similar name but generally lighter and less dense.
Queensland Maple – Another Australian furniture wood with a more uniform grain.
Hawaiian Koa – A Pacific hardwood with darker tones and stronger figuring.
Related Guides
How to Identify Exotic Hardwood by Grain Pattern
Queensland Silky Oak is a classic example of interlocked grain producing decorative figure.
Moisture Content & Long-Term Stability
Proper drying is important to maintain dimensional stability in figured woods.
How to Store Exotic Wood Samples
Storing samples in controlled humidity helps preserve figured timbers.
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
Collectors often seek Queensland Silky Oak samples that display strong lace figure or dramatic grain patterns. Quarter-sawn pieces are especially desirable because they highlight the species’ distinctive appearance.
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Do you have lumber, wood samples, tree photographs, woodworking projects, furniture, carvings, turnings, musical instruments, or other items made from 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.
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