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What Is Acacia Wood + Why Is It Great?

Published April 11, 2024
Acacia wood has made a name for itself in the world of interior design and craftsmanship.

The Roots of Acacia Wood

Acacia wood comes from the Acacia tree, a genus with over 1,000 species belonging to the pea family, Fabaceae. These trees are native to Australia and Africa and are renowned for their adaptation to harsh environments. Acacia trees can grow in varied climatic conditions and are well-known for their hard and dense wood. 

One of the most remarkable qualities of species of Acacia trees is their resilience. They’ve been observed in recent years to grow in arid, nutrient-depleted soils where other trees find it impossible to survive. It’s this resilience that translates into the hardness of acacia, making it an excellent material for heavy-duty workability. This is why one of the most popular applications of solid acacia wood is cutting boards, which literally take a beating everyday!

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Distinctive Features of Acacia Wood
The wood derived from the Acacia tree possesses a number of unique characteristics that make it an appealing material for various products:
  • Distinct Grains and Patterns: The wood's grain patterns are highly distinctive, often featuring a mix of straight and wavy lines, which adds to its aesthetic appeal.
  • Stability: Acacia wood has low moisture content, which lends it stability and prevents warping, making it an ideal choice for outdoor furniture as well.

Sustainable Sourcing of Acacia Wood

One of the key reasons acacia wood is lauded in the world of sustainability is the responsible way it's sourced. Acacia trees are fast-growing, which means they can be harvested more frequently than slower-growing tree species. Some suppliers of acacia wood ensure that for every tree harvested, a new one is planted, promoting a cycle of renewal and sustainability.
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Acacia Wood in Industrial Contexts
Beyond its application in consumer products, acacia wood is also used in industrial contexts, such as in the manufacturing of paper and charcoal. The tree's fast-growing nature and the high quality of its wood make it a valuable resource in these processes.
Its use in charcoal production, for instance, is an alternative to more destructive methods, as acacia wood can help to support efforts to reduce deforestation in sensitive areas.

Acacia Wood's Global Impact

The growing demand for acacia wood products has led to a notable global impact. It has provided employment and economic support to communities involved in the wood's harvesting and production.
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The sustainable cultivation of acacia wood can also contribute to carbon sequestration. Well-managed plantations can act as a carbon sink, which, in turn, supports climate change mitigation efforts.

Is acacia wood good quality?

Absolutely! Acacia wood is renowned for its exceptional hardness and durability, making it a superior choice for furniture and flooring. Its sturdy nature ensures that products made from acacia wood can withstand significant wear and tear, maintaining their quality over time.

What is so special about acacia wood?

Acacia wood stands out due to its impressive strength and stunning grain patterns. Each piece exudes unique character thanks to the rich color variations, ranging from dark browns to golden hues. Furthermore, acacia is eco-friendly as it's a fast-growing hardwood, making it a sustainable option for conscientious consumers.

Asia-Native Acacia Wood Inspiration

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Elle Coffee Table
$150
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Samhorn 3 Piece Coffee Table Set
$195
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Sandburst Coffee Table With Storage
$250
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Forma Coffee Table With Storage
$550
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Hollis Lift-Top Coffee Table With Storage
$450
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Tillman Lift-Top Coffee Table With Wheels
$425
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Cambria Glass Storage Coffee Table With Wheels
$595
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Forma 3 Piece Coffee Table Set
$940
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Lars Sliding Door Coffee Table
$395
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Elle 3 Piece Coffee Table Set
$400
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Crew Outdoor Coffee Table
$195
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Carmen Coffee Table With Storage
$325
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What is the downside of acacia wood?

While acacia wood boasts many benefits, it is not without its drawbacks. Acacia can react to changes in humidity by expanding or contracting, potentially causing warping or splitting if not properly cared for. Its density also makes it harder to work with, which can be a challenge for DIY projects.

Is acacia better than oak?

Acacia and Oak are both superior quality woods, but they have different characteristics. Acacia generally showcases a more striking grain pattern and has a higher hardness rating than Oak, which may contribute to better scratch resistance. However, Oak has been a traditional choice for centuries, known for its own strength and beauty.

Different Types of Wood Tables

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59" Modern Live Edge Block Leg Brown Wood Coffee Table
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Sandburst Coffee Table With Storage
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Dunkin 38" Round Coffee Table
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Yuma Round Drum Coffee Table With Wheels
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48" Modern Brown Wood Coffee Table W/Two Storage Ottomans
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Mid-Century Modern Coffee Table With Storage
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Magnolia Home Miller Walnut Round Coffee Table By Joanna Gaines
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Lizzie Triangle Wood Coffee Table
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Mira Wood Coffee Table With Storage
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39" White + Black Marble Mango Wood Coffee Table
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Brown Teak Wood Square Coffee Table
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Metal And Wood Tray Round Coffee Table
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Can acacia wood get wet?

Acacia wood can handle moisture to an extent and is even used for outdoor furniture due to its natural resistance to water damage. However, prolonged exposure to water can still harm the wood. Regular maintenance is key to protecting acacia wood from moisture-related issues.

Popular Choice Dining Tables

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Lakeland 48" Round Kitchen Dining Table
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Luis 72-90" Extendable Dining Table
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Magnolia Home Phoenix 84" Dining Table By Joanna Gaines
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Kasey 68-88" Extendable Dining Table
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Voyage Natural 94" Trestle Dining Table By Nate Berkus + Jeremiah Brent
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Gables 81-99" Extendable Dining Table
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Kailani 48" Round Dining Table
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Kara Modern Mid-Century Walnut Brown 60" Kitchen Dining Table
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Echo 86"-106" Extendable Dining Table
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Austen 72-90" Extendable Dining Table
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Ashford II 66" Kitchen Dining Table
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Felix 74-94" Extendable Toasted Natural Oak Dining Table
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Editorial Disclaimer: Articles featuring tips and advice are intended for educational purposes and only as general recommendations. Always practice personal discretion when using and caring for furniture, decor and related items.