Guide to Timber Species and How to Identify Them

Australia offers some of the most beautiful natural timbers in the world. At The Slab Lads we are lucky enough to source a variety of species from salvage yards that sustainably recover trees from tree loppers and kiln dry them before sale. Kiln-dried slabs are devoid of moisture meaning with time they will retain their shape and your pieces have a lifetime guarantee.

If you are looking to purchase slabs or planning a custom piece of furniture it’s good to know which type of slab will create the outcome you envision.

Camphor Laurel

The first on our list is not an Australian native species but is the most popular and widely used timber for most woodworkers. Camphor Laurel is a versatile timber featuring a rich honey-coloured finish with a grain that is either subtle, distinctive or even multicoloured.

Origin: Madagascar

Best for: Chopping boards, coffee tables, dining tables, kitchens, vanities and outdoor furniture

Finish options: Matt, Satin, Gloss

Jarrah

A true Australian hardwood, Jarrah is known for its strength and durability. This timber displays colours of blonde, soft pink, mahogany and burgundy. Jarrah timbers are said to reflect the hues of the Western Australian landscape and its natural properties give it high resistance to weather, termites & rot.

Origin: Western Australia

Best for: Coffee tables, dining tables

Finish options: Matt, Satin, Gloss

Red Gum

River Red Gum as it’s best known, is a part of the eucalyptus family and is an iconic Australian timber. The trees can be found along river banks, waterways and flood plains so it’s very likely you’ve come across this gum. This highly durable timber is used for heavy construction, such as flooring and railway sleepers, but its beauty and distinctive red colouring can be showcased best in furniture.

Origin: Australia

Best for: Coffee tables, dining tables, bench seats

Finish options: Matt, Satin, Gloss

African Mahogany

Native African Mahogany comes from Tropical Africa, however, some of the largest plantations can be found in northern parts of Australia. Its enormous trees can produce wide slabs with few knots and blemishes, making it water and rot-resistant and ideal for various applications including flooring, cabinetry, joinery and furniture. Colours can range from light to a dark reddish brown, though, when exposed to direct sunlight, African mahogany darkens over time.

Origin: Tropical Africa

Best for: Tables, chairs, built-ins

Finish options: Matt, Satin, Gloss

Jacaranda

Jacaranda is a durable hardwood, though not as dense as species like Blue Gum or Red Cedar. With its smooth, fine texture, it’s relatively easy to work with, particularly for more intricate designs. Best suited to indoor applications such as furniture and decorative pieces, the timber typically features light to medium brown tones.

Origin: Argentina

Best for: Fine furniture

Finish options: Matt, Satin, Gloss

Sydney Blue Gum

Sydney Blue Gum is a popular Australian native hardwood known for its straight grain and dark pink to reddish brown colouring. The durable timber is widely used for general construction such as flooring, fencing and high-end furniture making it a good choice for indoor and outdoor uses.

Origin: Australia

Best for: Benchtops, tables, bench seats

Finish options: Matt, Satin, Gloss

Blackbutt

Blackbutt is a great Australian hardwood most commonly used for flooring, framework and decking. It’s so popular because of its versatility to be stained, painted or polished. This timber comes in a range of colours of golden yellow, pale brown or sometimes with a hint of pink.

Origin: Australia

Best for: Desks, coffee tables, side tables, dining tables and bench tops

Finish options: Matt, Satin, Gloss