Azobé (Ekki)
Scientific Name: Lophira alata
One of the hardest and most durable African hardwoods. Its exceptional strength and resistance to marine borers make it the premier choice for heavy construction, dock work, and applications requiring maximum durability.
tuneTechnical Specifications
Color / Appearance
Heartwood is dark red to dark chocolate brown, often with lighter pink or red streaks. Very distinctive appearance.
Grain / Texture
Grain is interlocked and irregular. Texture is coarse with a low natural luster.
Average Dried Weight
1,065 kg/m³ (66 lbs/ft³)
Janka Hardness
3,140 lbf (13,970 N)
Workability
Very difficult to work due to extreme hardness and density. Requires carbide-tipped tools. Pre-drilling essential. Excellent durability class 1.
Origin
publicCameroon, Central Africa
chairCommon Applications
Marine & Dock Construction
Pier pilings, groynes, and underwater structures.
Heavy Industrial
Railway sleepers, industrial flooring, and load-bearing structures.
Bridge Construction
Bridge decking, structural components, and lock gates.
Sustainability Promise
Azobé is carefully managed due to its slow growth rate. All our Azobé comes from concessions with strict harvest limits and regeneration programs.
We ensure full traceability from forest to customer, supporting sustainable forest management in Cameroon.
Sustainable