Jarrah

Eucalyptus marginata.

Other names:

Distribution and Availability

Jarrah is grown in the south west of Western Australia. The timber is readily available countrywide.

General Description

Jarrah’s heartwood is dark red, with sapwood a pale yellow. The grain is moderately coarse textured and even, with attractive fiddleback featuring caused by wavy, interlocking grain in some examples.

Physical & Mechanical Properties

The wood is hard  with good strength properties. It is termite resistant, but untreated sapwood is susceptible to lyctid borer attack. Sapwood readily accepts preservative impregnation but penetration of heartwood is negligible using currently available commercial processes

Working Properties

This hardwoods lends itself well to working with handtools and machines and turns well.

Durability

Jarrah is rated as very durable regarding decay resistance, and it is also quite resistant to insect attack. Because of its great durability and common occurrence, Jarrah is a useful timber for exterior projects in Australia. Its vibrant red colour, and high density add to its marketability for use as a flooring material.

Main Uses

Jarrah is a durabile, versatile hardwood, and its applications range from structural, exterior and interior decor. The beautiful colours of this timber are routinely showcased in flooring, veneer, cabinetry, and outdoor furniture. Jarrah burl is also prized among wood turners, with its tight knots, swirling grain, and rich colours giving an aesthetically pleasing appearance.

Other Information

Jarrah tends to be difficult to machine on account of its high density and interlocked grain. Jarrah also has a moderate blunting effect on cutting edges. Jarrah turns, glues, and finishes well.