Tiama
Scientific name: Entandrophragma angolense
Overview
Tiama is a medium-weight African hardwood closely related to Sapele and other Entandrophragma species. It is valued for its balanced workability, moderate durability, and attractive reddish-brown coloration.
Often used as an alternative to mahogany, Tiama is suitable for furniture, joinery, and decorative applications where both appearance and performance are important.
Quick Facts
- Common Name: Tiama
- Scientific Name: Entandrophragma angolense
- Region: African Hardwoods (West & Central Africa)
- Tree Size: 100–150 ft tall, 3–6 ft trunk diameter
- Average Dried Weight: 42 lbs/ft³ (675 kg/m³)
- Janka Hardness: 980 lbf
- Color: Pinkish brown to reddish brown
- Grain: Interlocked
- Texture: Medium
Identification Characteristics
Tiama is identified by its reddish-brown color and interlocked grain, which can produce ribbon-like figure on quartersawn surfaces. It is similar in appearance to Sapele but is generally lighter in weight and less pronounced in figure.
The texture is medium and consistent across most boards.
Key identification traits include:
- Reddish-brown heartwood
- Interlocked grain with ribbon figure
- Medium texture
- Moderate density
Working Properties
Tiama is generally easy to work, though its interlocked grain may require attention during machining.
- Machines well with sharp tools
- May produce tear-out due to interlocked grain
- Glues and finishes reliably
- Accepts stains evenly
- Good dimensional stability
Safety Note
Dust may cause mild irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory system. Proper protection is recommended during machining and sanding.
Common Uses
Tiama is commonly used in applications where both appearance and workability are important.
- Furniture and cabinetry
- Interior joinery and paneling
- Doors and architectural millwork
- Veneer applications
- Decorative woodwork
Sustainability & Notes
Tiama is not currently listed under CITES, though it is harvested across multiple regions. Responsible sourcing is recommended.
Comparative Notes & Related Species
Sapele – Typically denser with more pronounced ribbon figure and darker coloration.
African Mahogany – Similar in use and workability, often lighter in tone and more uniform in appearance.
Makore – Denser with a finer texture and deeper reddish color used in high-end applications.
Related Guides
Understanding Interlocked vs Straight Grain
Explains how interlocked grain affects machining and visual appearance.
Finishing Oils vs Polyurethane on Exotic Species
Provides guidance on enhancing color and grain in reddish hardwoods.
Machining Dense Tropical Hardwoods
Offers techniques for working with medium to dense tropical species.
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
Tiama is valued by collectors as part of the Entandrophragma group, offering a useful comparison alongside Sapele and related species. Its ribbon figure and reddish tone make it visually appealing, particularly in quartersawn samples.
Pieces with consistent grain and minimal tear-out are typically preferred for display and reference.
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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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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:
• THORVALD 3-in-1 Carpenter Mechanical Pencil Set for making precise layout marks on wood, lumber, drywall, concrete, and other construction materials
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• Gorilla Ultimate Waterproof Wood Glue (18 oz) for creating strong, waterproof bonds in indoor and outdoor woodworking, furniture, and repair projects
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• DEWALT 21-Piece Titanium Nitride Coated Drill Bit Set for drilling clean, accurate holes in wood, metal, and plastic with long-lasting pilot point bits
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