Collection: Southern Blue Gum

Appearance of Southern Blue Gum Timber

The color of Southern Blue Gum ranges from pale straw to brown, often displaying unique blue, green, or grey tinges, with regrowth timber sometimes showing pink hues. The sapwood is paler than the heartwood but may not always be distinct. Grain is typically interlocked, with a medium, even texture, and prominent growth rings on end sections. Plantation timber often shows pinhole markings, adding character to the wood.

Common Applications of Southern Blue Gum Timber

Southern Blue Gum’s hardness and vibrant tones make it an ideal choice for flooring, especially in indoor sports centers and high-traffic venues. It is also widely used in joinery, furniture, and general construction. Additional applications include framing, boatbuilding, handles, piles, posts, sleepers, paving blocks, and wagon building. Its resilience and durability make it suitable for a wide range of structural and decorative uses.

Workability of Southern Blue Gum Timber

Despite its hardness, Southern Blue Gum is relatively easy to work, fix, and dress. However, its density can blunt cutting tools, so using the correct machinery is recommended. The wood requires careful seasoning to prevent collapse and checking on tangential surfaces. It can be challenging to drill and nail but yields smooth, clean holes. With proper selection for straight grain, Southern Blue Gum is suitable for steam bending and produces a smooth finish that readily accepts most standard coatings.

Durability of Southern Blue Gum Timber

Southern Blue Gum is moderately durable, though it is not naturally termite-resistant, and untreated sapwood is prone to Lyctid borer attack. Its density provides resilience and a long service life in both interior and some exterior applications.

Origin and Availability of Southern Blue Gum Timber

Kosny Timber sources Southern Blue Gum from plantations and native forests in southeast Australia, particularly in Tasmania. Its wide commercial availability and impressive versatility make it a reliable choice for both structural and aesthetic projects.