Stinkwood

Black Stinkwood (Ocotea bullata), also called Cape Walnut, has been one of South Africa’s most treasured furniture woods for centuries, and antique Cape furniture made from it is highly collectible. It gets its unfortunate name from the sharp smell of freshly cut wood, which fades once the timber is dry.
The heartwood varies a lot, from almost black through dark brown to medium brown with a reddish tint, and the pale yellow sapwood is easy to spot. Its grain is fine, tight and usually straight, and its durability is often compared to Teak.
Despite its density, it’s surprisingly cooperative to work. It planes and turns cleanly, takes fine detail well and finishes beautifully, building a rich, deep natural luster with very little effort. Sharp tools and a light final pass give the best surface on darker, harder boards.
Stinkwood is a protected tree in South Africa, so supply is limited and good boards are always in demand. It remains a favorite of South African furniture makers, cabinetmakers and gunsmiths, and it’s used for fine furniture, cabinetry, joinery, gun stocks and specialty pieces.
Not listed in the CITES Appendices. It is a protected tree in South Africa and is assessed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List.
Why We Love This Wood
Don't let the name put you off. It's one of South Africa's most treasured furniture woods.
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Vital Statistics
| Main Color Group | Dark Brown |
| Grain Pattern | Even |
| Avg Dry Weight - LB/BF | 5.8 |
| Avg Dry Weight - KG/M3 | 1120 |
| Janka Hardness - LBF | 3220 |
| Janka Hardness - N | 14140 |
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