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View optionArgentine Lignum Vitae Wood Guide
Wood species guide · Imported specialty hardwood
Argentine Lignum Vitae is best understood by how it looks, how it works, and where it should be used. This guide explains the practical buying details before sending you to the right Kingma products.
Scientific namePlectrocarpa sarmientoi (formerly placed in the Bulnesia genus; see comments below )
Janka hardness3,870 lbf
Average dried weight74.9 lb/ft³
Best fitBearings
Overview
Why choose Argentine Lignum Vitae?
Argentine Lignum Vitae is an imported specialty hardwood. Its natural range is Gran Chaco area of South America; Argentina supplies much of the commercial lumber. Common uses include bearings, bushings, mallet heads, tool handles, boatbuilding, pulley wheels, turned objects and heavy construction close to where the tree grows.
Scientific namePlectrocarpa sarmientoi (formerly placed in the Bulnesia genus; see comments below )
DistributionGran Chaco area of South America; Argentina supplies much of the commercial lumber
ShrinkageRadial: 4.8%, Tangential: 7.8%, Volumetric: 12.0%, T/R Ratio: 1.6 More images | Identification
DurabilityOutdoors it is said to be very durable, and a relative, Plectrocarpa arborea, reportedly lasts forever.
Argentine Lignum Vitae colour, grain, and figure
Heartwood runs from pale yellowish olive through deep forest green to dark brown. It darkens with age, particularly when exposed to light.
The grain is usually interlocked. Texture is fine and even, with a very high natural shine.
Working notes
Its extreme density makes it prone to skipping over jointer knives, so take very light passes. It also dulls cutters and is quite hard to work overall.
No reports exist for this exact species, but sawdust from the close relative Plectrocarpa arborea has caused sneezing, and lignum vitae, another member of the Zygophyllaceae family, has caused reports of skin irritation.
Argentine Lignum Vitae should be sold by project fit: colour, workability, durability, and the format the customer actually needs.
Best uses for Argentine Lignum Vitae
Best projects
Common uses include bearings, bushings, mallet heads, tool handles, boatbuilding, pulley wheels, turned objects and heavy construction close to where the tree grows.
Use caution
Avoid specifying it by name alone; confirm board size, moisture, colour, figure, and the project environment before buying.
Finish strategy
Test finishes on offcuts first, especially when colour, blotching, outdoor exposure, or grain filling matters.
Buying note
Choose boards, slabs, plywood, blanks, or posts based on the project rather than species name alone.
Shop path
Buying Argentine Lignum Vitae from Kingma
Start with the direct species match when Kingma sells it. If stock rotates, use the closest live collection or a clearly explained alternative.
Live edge slabs
Use when the customer cares more about slab format and visual impact than this exact species.
View optionSimilar woods and alternatives
If Kingma does not have an exact match online, use the buying links below as practical alternatives only when the colour, grain, hardness, or project environment makes sense.
Argentine Lignum Vitae FAQ
What is Argentine Lignum Vitae best used for?
Common uses include bearings, bushings, mallet heads, tool handles, boatbuilding, pulley wheels, turned objects and heavy construction close to where the tree grows. Match it to the exact board format, colour, hardness, and finish plan before buying.
Is Argentine Lignum Vitae beginner friendly?
It depends on density, grain direction, and tooling. Test cuts on offcuts first, and choose Maple, Cherry, Walnut, or Poplar when easier machining is the priority.
Does Kingma sell Argentine Lignum Vitae?
The buying section on this page links to any Argentine Lignum Vitae Kingma has in stock and to the closest alternatives. Stock changes often, so call (780) 229-7681 or visit the yard at 4607 91 Ave NW, Edmonton to check what is in today.