Maple lumber collection
Clean, pale domestic alternative for furniture and utility builds.
View optionCandlenut Wood Guide
Wood species guide · Imported specialty hardwood
Candlenut 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 nameAleurites moluccanus
Janka hardness340 lbf
Average dried weight24.5 lb/ft³
Best fitKitchen utensils
Overview
Why choose Candlenut?
Candlenut is an imported specialty hardwood. Mainly Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands; also found in tropical regions around the world. Common uses include kitchen utensils, paneling, interior woodwork, utility lumber and plywood.
Scientific nameAleurites moluccanus
DistributionMainly Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands; also found in tropical regions around the world
ShrinkageRadial: ~3%, Tangential: ~6%, Volumetric: ~9%, T/R Ratio: ~2 More images | Identification
DurabilityDecay resistance is poor, and so is insect resistance.
Candlenut colour, grain, and figure
Light brown heartwood with no clear line between it and the sapwood. Gray or bluish stains are common.
The grain is straight and the texture is coarse and even.
Working notes
It is generally easy to work, but like any very soft wood it dents and bruises easily while being handled. Blue fungal stain can set in if it is not dried properly.
Serious reactions are uncommon, but candlenut sap has caused reports of skin irritation. Whether dried wood does the same is unclear.
Candlenut should be sold by project fit: colour, workability, durability, and the format the customer actually needs.
Best uses for Candlenut
Best projects
Common uses include kitchen utensils, paneling, interior woodwork, utility lumber and plywood.
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 Candlenut 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.
Candlenut FAQ
What is Candlenut best used for?
Common uses include kitchen utensils, paneling, interior woodwork, utility lumber and plywood. Match it to the exact board format, colour, hardness, and finish plan before buying.
Is Candlenut 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 Candlenut?
The buying section on this page links to any Candlenut 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.