Australian Buloke, also known as Allocasuarina luehmannii, is a hardwood species native to Australia. The tree is known for its exceptional strength, density, and durability, making it one of the strongest woods in the world.
Australian Buloke trees are found mainly in eastern Australia, in the states of Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, and South Australia. The tree typically grows in arid regions, where it is exposed to high temperatures, limited water, and strong winds.
Due to its unique characteristics, Australian Buloke is highly valued in various industries. It is used for a wide range of applications, including tool handles, knife scales, flooring, decking, railroad ties, fence posts, and heavy construction.
Here are ten things to know about Australian Buloke:
- Australian Buloke is the hardest and heaviest wood in the world. It has a Janka hardness rating of 5,060 lbf.
- The wood is extremely dense, with a specific gravity of 1.5, which is heavier than water.
- The heartwood of Australian Buloke ranges in color from reddish-brown to dark brown, while the sapwood is a pale yellow.
- The wood has an interlocked grain pattern, which gives it exceptional strength and stability.
- Australian Buloke is highly resistant to wear, rot, and decay, making it ideal for outdoor applications.
- The wood is difficult to work with due to its density and hardness, but it can be polished to a high luster.
- The tree is slow-growing and typically reaches a height of up to 30 meters.
- Australian Buloke is a favored wood for making tool handles, such as axes, hammers, and shovels, due to its strength and durability.
- The wood is also used for knife handles and scales, as it is resistant to moisture and decay.
- Australian Buloke is considered an environmentally sustainable choice, as it is a renewable resource that grows in arid regions where other trees cannot thrive.
In summary, Australian Buloke is a rare and highly prized hardwood species with exceptional strength and durability. Its unique properties make it ideal for a wide range of applications, from tool handles to heavy construction, and its sustainability makes it an attractive choice for those seeking eco-friendly materials.