Although a number of woods are commonly referred to as "Zebrawood," the real McCoy is Microberlinia brazzavillensis from West Africa (which is the only Zebrawood we sell at Exotic Wood Group). If you'd like to verify that the wood you're getting is the real deal, the easiest — albeit not the most pleasant — way is simply to cut into it and take a whiff. Zebrawood, quite literally, smells like crap. (No, we're not making this up.)

Presumably, though, the zoo-like odor is not the primary reason for Zebrawood's name; the wood's distinctive striping pattern, reminiscent of that on zebras, has led to its moniker.  (Note: the wood also goes by the name "Zebrano.")

Zebrawood is a hard, heavy, tough, and durable wood that is typically used for turnery and carving, as well as for furniture and cabinet making, tool handles, inlay, flooring, veneer, and dashboards. It has an average specific gravity of about 0.74.

The heartwood is generally a pale yellowish brown and features, of course, dark brown to purplish black streaks. Zebrawood is almost always quartersawn in order to capture the attractive alternating color pattern.

Zebrawood trees can grow to heights of 150 feet, with trunk diameters reaching four to five feet. The trees are difficult to harvest due to their large size and the fact that they're often located in fairly inaccessible areas of Africa.

Zebrawood Sculpture Created by Janet H.
of New York

Partially Turned Zebrawood Blank

Zebrawood's interlocking grain can make it somewhat difficult to work with, although the wood is relatively easy to turn and polishes well.

Unfortunately, Zebrawood is currently considered a threatened species in Africa. However, its huge popularity in the West has thankfully resulted in several reforestation efforts.

Oh, and regarding that smell — don't worry, it disappears once the wood is dried or finished.

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