The term broadleaf wood (also known as hardwood) refers to tree species that belong to the angiosperm group: deciduous trees (although not exclusively) that produce encapsulated seeds.
This group of woods includes species such as oak, walnut, cherry, and hard maple.
Unlike coniferous woods, which come from gymnosperms such as pine or fir, hardwoods have a more complex cellular structure, with visible conducting vessels and more pronounced growth rings.
This results in denser, more durable, and stronger woods, ideal for jobs requiring precision and durability.
Learn about tropical woods in this other post on our blog.
Technical characteristics of hardwoods
The properties of hardwoods vary by species, but they share a number of common characteristics that make them especially valuable for making products such as cutting boards:
High density: higher than most softwoods, giving them greater resistance to wear and deformation.
Hardness and mechanical resistance: ideal for intensive use and direct contact with food and sharp utensils.
Dimensional stability: less tendency to expand or contract with changes in humidity.
Natural beauty: complex veins, intense colors, and the possibility of highly aesthetic finishes.
Longevity: These are durable woods, capable of lasting for decades with proper maintenance.
How do they differ from other woods?
Technically, hardwoods can be differentiated by:
Microscopic observation of the vessels: the leafy plants have visible pores, often arranged in rings or diffusely.
Color and texture: They usually have a finer texture and a darker or more nuanced color than softwoods.
Specific weight: to the touch, they tend to feel heavier and denser.
Grain: These show more complex grain patterns, which are aesthetically valuable in displayed products.
Main species of hardwoods used
In the manufacture of high-end kitchen accessories like those we offer at Ligna, hardwoods are selected for their combination of aesthetics, durability, and food safety. Among the most recognized and widely used are:
Features: fine grain, good strength, smooth surface.
Ideal for: lightweight, modern accessories such as trays or presentation plates.
Birch Wood
Advantages of hardwoods in kitchen accessories
The use of hardwoods incutting and serving boardsis no coincidence. Beyond their appearance, these species offer key functional advantages:
Greater resistance to cutting and abrasion.
Less porous surfaces, which prevents the accumulation of bacteria.
Compatibility with natural protective oils.
Excellent response to manual or industrial sanding and finishing.
Therefore, at Ligna, each board is made with a rigorous selection of these species, respecting the grain and direction to ensure maximum strength and durability.
Sustainability and responsible origin
In a context of growing ecological awareness, the origin of the hardwoods used in kitchen products is crucial. The hardwoods we use at Ligna come from sustainably managed forests and, in most cases, have international certifications such as:
FSC (Forest Stewardship Council): guarantees that the wood comes from responsible sources.
PEFC (Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification): promotes sustainable forest management from origin to final product.
Furthermore, the longevity of these products reduces the need for frequent replacement, contributing to the circular economy and reducing environmental impact.
Conclusion
Hardwoods are the foundation of functional, durable, and beautiful products. Their selection and use in kitchen accessories such as cutting and serving boards respond to technical, aesthetic, and ethical criteria.
At Ligna, we work with these species to guarantee high-value products that combine tradition, design, and environmental responsibility.
