Also called African Rosewood and Kevazingo, Bubinga is a medium to very large tree found in the forests of West Africa, mainly Cameroon, Gabon and the Ivory Coast. Bubinga trees can grow to a height of 150 feet and diameters up to 6 feet. It is a very heavy wood, weighing 50 to 60 pounds per cubic foot.

The heartwood is pinkish-red to brownish-red with a fine purplish striping and is in strong contrast to the light straw-colored sapwood which is usually 4-6” wide. The grain is usually straight and interlocked but in some logs the grain is very irregular, producing highly figured veneers and lumber. Bubinga is capable of taking an extremely fine polish.

Uses include high class furniture and cabinetry, interior and architectural work, and fancy, decorative items. It is an excellent wood for lathe work. Many luthiers recommend Bubinga for acoustic and electric guitar sets and wide, quartersawn material for instrument backs is always available.