Collection: Queensland Walnut

Appearance of Queensland Walnut

The heartwood of Queensland walnut varies in colour but is typically greyish-brown with streaks of chocolate brown, black, or pink. Its pale yellow sapwood can reach up to 100 millimetres wide. The timber has a medium texture with a moderate natural lustre and shallow open pores. The grain is close and even, often interlocked or wavy, resulting in diverse figure effects that are especially attractive on quarter-sawn surfaces.

Common Applications of Queensland Walnut

Queensland walnut is primarily used for decorative purposes. Common applications include veneers, plywood, furniture, shop and office fixtures, and turnery. It is also a popular choice for musical instruments, particularly for crafting guitar backs and sides. The timber’s unique electrical insulation properties may make it suitable for certain types of electrical enclosures.

Workability of Queensland Walnut

Queensland walnut is moderately hard and well-suited for steam bending. It can be worked effectively with hand tools and machines, although its high silica content can be abrasive to cutters. The timber sands well and responds readily to standard fittings and fastenings. It accepts coatings such as paint, stains, polishes, and glues with ease, and oiled finishes are particularly striking. While an unpleasant odour may be noticed during processing, it is absent in the dry timber.

Durability of Queensland Walnut

Queensland walnut has a limited life expectancy of five to seven years for in-ground and above-ground applications, respectively. It is not termite-resistant, and untreated sapwood is susceptible to borer attack. Sapwood is easily impregnated with preservatives, though heartwood resists treatment. The timber performs best in dry, covered, and well-ventilated environments where it is protected from moisture and weather exposure.

Origin and Availability of Queensland Walnut

Queensland walnut is native to the coastal tablelands of North Queensland. Its availability is limited, largely restricted to veneers, as commercial harvesting is constrained by World Heritage protection of its natural habitat. Anecdotal evidence suggests that supplies of this timber are becoming increasingly scarce.

Conclusion

Queensland walnut’s exceptional visual appeal and versatility make it a standout choice for decorative and specialty applications, though its scarcity adds to its value and exclusivity.