Maple lumber collection
Clean, pale domestic alternative for furniture and utility builds.
View optionCamphor Wood Guide
Wood species guide · Imported specialty hardwood
Camphor 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 nameCinnamomum camphora
Janka hardness950 lbf
Average dried weight33 lb/ft³
Best fitFurniture
Overview
Why choose Camphor?
Camphor is an imported specialty hardwood. Planted widely in tropical and subtropical regions around the world; native to southeast Asia. Common uses include furniture, cabinetry, chests, turned objects and veneer.
Scientific nameCinnamomum camphora
DistributionPlanted widely in tropical and subtropical regions around the world; native to southeast Asia
ShrinkageRadial: 3.1%, Tangential: 5.4%, Volumetric: 8.7%, T/R Ratio: 1.7
DurabilityThe wood is durable, though resistance to various insects is mixed.
Camphor colour, grain, and figure
The colour varies a great deal with species and growing conditions. It is usually light brown, often with tones of grey, red or olive green, and occasionally has darker streaks.
The grain may be straight, interlocked, wavy, or a combination. The texture is even and medium, the natural luster is high, and the surface feels slightly greasy.
Working notes
Camphor has moderate density, so it shapes and machines with little effort. Interlocked areas may tear out, but problems are usually minor.
Reported effects of camphor include skin and respiratory irritation, headaches, giddiness, and symptoms like asthma.
Camphor should be sold by project fit: colour, workability, durability, and the format the customer actually needs.
Best uses for Camphor
Best projects
Common uses include furniture, cabinetry, chests, turned objects and veneer.
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 Camphor 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.
Camphor FAQ
What is Camphor best used for?
Common uses include furniture, cabinetry, chests, turned objects and veneer. Match it to the exact board format, colour, hardness, and finish plan before buying.
Is Camphor 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 Camphor?
The buying section on this page links to any Camphor 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.