Maple lumber collection
Clean, pale domestic alternative for furniture and utility builds.
View optionBlackheart Sassafras Wood Guide
Wood species guide · Imported specialty hardwood
Blackheart Sassafras 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 nameAtherosperma moschatum
Janka hardness1,090 lbf
Average dried weight39 lb/ft³
Best fitTurned objects
Overview
Why choose Blackheart Sassafras?
Blackheart Sassafras is an imported specialty hardwood. Its natural range is Australia. Common uses include turned objects, carvings, musical instruments, flooring, furniture and cabinetry.
Scientific nameAtherosperma moschatum
DistributionAustralia
ShrinkageRadial: 2.5%, Tangential: 6.3%, Volumetric: 8.9%, T/R Ratio: 2.5
DurabilityThe wood is non-durable to perishable.
Blackheart Sassafras colour, grain, and figure
The heartwood is naturally grey to golden brown. A staining fungus infects some trees and leaves colourful dark brown and black streaks and veins, which gave blackheart sassafras its name.
The grain is straight with an even, fine to medium texture and low natural luster.
Working notes
It is easy to work with hand and machine tools and steam bends well with little spring-back.
Apart from the usual hazards of wood dust, no other health effects are known for Blackheart Sassafras.
Blackheart Sassafras should be sold by project fit: colour, workability, durability, and the format the customer actually needs.
Best uses for Blackheart Sassafras
Best projects
Common uses include turned objects, carvings, musical instruments, flooring, furniture and cabinetry.
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 Blackheart Sassafras 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.
Blackheart Sassafras FAQ
What is Blackheart Sassafras best used for?
Common uses include turned objects, carvings, musical instruments, flooring, furniture and cabinetry. Match it to the exact board format, colour, hardness, and finish plan before buying.
Is Blackheart Sassafras 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 Blackheart Sassafras?
The buying section on this page links to any Blackheart Sassafras 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.