Maple lumber collection
Clean, pale domestic alternative for furniture and utility builds.
View optionLilac Wood Guide
Wood species guide · Imported specialty hardwood
Lilac 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 nameSyringa spp.
Janka hardness2,350 lbf
Average dried weight59 lb/ft³
Best fitUsed occasionally for carved pieces
Overview
Why choose Lilac?
Lilac is an imported specialty hardwood. Its natural range is Europe and Asia are its home; it is cultivated across many temperate regions worldwide. Used occasionally for carved pieces and for small turnings like pens and bowls.
Scientific nameSyringa spp.
DistributionEurope and Asia are its home; it is cultivated across many temperate regions worldwide
ShrinkageTangential shrinkage is in excess of 10%; reported to have a high level of shrinkage
DurabilityNo official reports exist.
Lilac colour, grain, and figure
Colour varies with the species. Reddish or lavender streaks sometimes run through the heartwood.
The grain is slightly interlocked and the texture is very fine. The surface has a good natural sheen.
Working notes
Reported to turn excellently. It tends to warp and to split at the ends as it dries.
Apart from the usual hazards of breathing any wood dust, Lilac has no other reported health reactions.
Lilac should be sold by project fit: colour, workability, durability, and the format the customer actually needs.
Best uses for Lilac
Best projects
Used occasionally for carved pieces and for small turnings like pens and bowls.
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 Lilac 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.
Lilac FAQ
What is Lilac best used for?
Used occasionally for carved pieces and for small turnings like pens and bowls. Match it to the exact board format, colour, hardness, and finish plan before buying.
Is Lilac 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 Lilac?
The buying section on this page links to any Lilac 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.