Australian Oak


Name Australian Oak (Eucalyptus spp.)
Type Hardwood.
Other Names Includes three species marketed together – E. delegatensis (alpine ash, white-top, woollybutt), E. obliqua (messmate stringybark, brown-top stringybark), and E. regnans (mountain ash, Victorian ash, stringy gum, swamp gum).
Sources Grows in south eastern Australia.
Appearance Typically straight grained, sometimes interlocked or wavy, with a coarse texture. Narrow, indistinct sapwood and pale brown to light brown heartwood with a pinkish tinge.
Physical Props Moderately heavy to heavy, hard, moderately stiff, high crushing strength, medium bending strength, and moderately high shock resistance. Medium movement in use and decay resistance. Steam-bending rating is moderate at best (E. obliqua).
Working Props Works well with hand or machine tools with only a moderate blunting effect on cutting edges. Glues satisfactorily and holds nails and screws well. Stains and polishes easily and can be brought to an excellent finish.
Uses Used for interior and exterior joinery, building construction, boxes, cooperage, flooring, furniture, sports equipment, agricultral implements, tool handles, plywood, and decorative veneer.
Comments Sold as Australian or Tasmanian oak but not a true oak.