Maple lumber collection
Clean, pale domestic alternative for furniture and utility builds.
View optionBlack Ironwood Wood Guide
Wood species guide · Imported specialty hardwood
Black Ironwood 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 nameKrugiodendron ferreum
Janka hardness3,660 lbf
Average dried weight84 lb/ft³
Best fitSmall turned objects
Overview
Why choose Black Ironwood?
Black Ironwood is an imported specialty hardwood. Its natural range is Southern Florida, the Caribbean and Central America. Common uses include small turned objects, veneer and firewood.
Scientific nameKrugiodendron ferreum
DistributionSouthern Florida, the Caribbean and Central America
ShrinkageRadial: 6.2%, Tangential: 8.0%, Volumetric: 11.6%, T/R Ratio: 1.3
DurabilityReported to resist decay very well, and termites too.
Black Ironwood colour, grain, and figure
The sapwood is pale yellowish white and clearly set apart from the heartwood, which varies among browns, violets, oranges and reds.
The grain is straight and even. Texture is extremely fine and the natural luster is high.
Working notes
It resists cutting strongly and is difficult to work because of its density, but it turns and finishes well.
Aside from the usual risks of any wood dust, no other health reactions are linked to Black Ironwood.
Black Ironwood should be sold by project fit: colour, workability, durability, and the format the customer actually needs.
Best uses for Black Ironwood
Best projects
Common uses include small turned objects, veneer and firewood.
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 Black Ironwood 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.
Black Ironwood FAQ
What is Black Ironwood best used for?
Common uses include small turned objects, veneer and firewood. Match it to the exact board format, colour, hardness, and finish plan before buying.
Is Black Ironwood 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 Black Ironwood?
The buying section on this page links to any Black Ironwood 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.