Log Blog: Blackwood in the Basket Range

Blackwood (also known as Australian Blackwood, Paluma Blackwood, and Black Wattle) is a native Australia hardwood that grows in South Australia and the eastern states. It is also grown in large quantities for commercial use in the south western parts of Tasmania. It is easy to work with using handtools and glues well, it is ideal for furniture and is known for its ability to steam bend.

Blackwood Leaves

A friend found this tall Blackwood tree that was being cut down and removed from by labourers in the Basket Range. These 2 metre long logs with a diameter of 350-400mm are an awesome find for me! Cutting slabs of these revealed the beautiful straight grain with yellow and reddish streaks, and a rich golden-brown heartwood.

After some careful drying, this wood will form a gorgeous dining room chair, rocking chair or any other wonderful piece of furniture. Not only is it saved from a sadder fate of being burned, but it is also locally grown tree in its natural habitat that was already being removed rather than supporting the commercial logging in other states and countries.

Such beautiful streaks throughout the logs