Dabema, also sometimes referred to as African Teak (not to be confused with genuine teak), is a versatile hardwood native to West Africa.

It is typically light to golden brown in color, and when quartersawn, it may display a subtle ribbon-like figure. Dabema has a coarse texture and an interlocked grain, and it emits a noticeable ammoniac odor when freshly cut or rewetted.

Dabema is a medium-hard, semi-heavy wood that balances strength with relatively low weight.

It is known for its durability and high resistance to wear, making it suitable for demanding structural applications. It is often used for bridge and building construction, and its good response to steam bending makes it ideal for plywood production.

For decades, Dabema has also been used in heavy-duty transportation, particularly for thick trailer floors.

Considerations

While Dabema offers many advantages, there are a few challenges to be aware of:

• It has a moderate blunting effect on cutting tools
• Its sawdust may cause irritation to skin and respiratory systems
• The odor, especially when the wood is green or exposed to moisture, can be unpleasant and should be considered based on the intended application or location

Despite these issues, the wood’s overall performance, availability, and versatility have made Dabema a reliable choice for a wide range of industrial and structural uses.