Kotibé Wood: Uses and Characteristics

Kotibé wood, from West Africa, is a popular choice for cabinetmaking because of its balance of durability, beauty and ease of workability.

Known for its reddish brown color and its resistance, kotibe is a wood mainly used for the manufacture or ornamentation of small objects.

The following are their characteristics and most common uses.

What is Kotibe Wood?

Kotibé is extracted from the tree Nesogordonia papaverifera which grows in the tropical regions of Africa. Its color varies from light brown to reddish brown, darkening with time.

It has a straight or slightly interlocked grain, fine grain and a delicate texture. Its combination of warm aesthetics and physical properties makes it a versatile and durable wood.

Characteristics of Kotibe Wood

Hardness and Density

Kotibe has a moderate hardness, with a density of between 620 and 700 kg/m³, which gives it good strength without being excessively heavy. This makes it suitable for decorative projects as well as for objects exposed to scratches or small knocks, such as a breakfast tray.

Stability and Durability

This wood is very stable and durable, with good resistance to decay and wear due to its high content of natural oils. It can be used both indoors and outdoors if properly treated.

Aesthetics

The warm color of kotibe, along with its soft grain and oily feel, makes it aesthetically appealing for projects requiring fine finishes. With proper treatment, it maintains its luster and elegance for long periods of time.

Ease of Work

Kotibé is a relatively easy wood to work. It can be cut, planed, sanded and polished without too much hassle, and responds well to varnishes, oils and glues, which allows it to highlight its natural tones and protect it from wear and tear.

Uses of Kotibé Wood

Cutting Boards of kotibe wood

Kotibé wood is not a wood commonly used for cutting boards. Its high price and unstable availability mean that it is used for small details in high-end cutting boards with complex designs.

Its low porosity and resistance make it ideal to accompany woods such as hard maple, wenge, oak or iroko.

Small Indoor Furniture

Due to its strength and intense warm colors, kotibe is ideal for making small objects such as boxes, candle holders, trays or centerpieces.

Flooring and Coatings

Although not often, kotibe is used for interior flooring where a wear-resistant surface is needed. Its warm color also makes it an attractive aesthetic choice for cladding and stairs.

General Carpentry

In areas where kotibe is abundant, it is frequently used in carpentry and joinery projects, including doors, windows and moldings, where both strength and aesthetics are required.

Advantages and Considerations for Kotibe Wood

Advantages of Kotibe wood in cutting boards

• Attractive Aesthetics: The reddish color and fine grain of kotibe make it a highly valued choice for furniture and decorative finishes.
• Ease of Work: Despite being a moderately hard wood, it is easy to work with, making it ideal for carpentry and joinery projects.
• Durability: Kotibe is resistant to wear and moisture, making it a durable choice for flooring, furniture and cutting boards.

Considerations on the use of Kotibé wood:

• Limited availability: Kotibé wood is not abundant in domestic and European markets, which can increase its price and limit its accessibility.
• Darkening over Time: Like other reddish-toned tropical woods, kotibe tends to darken over time.

Conclusion

Kotibe wood is an excellent choice for adding detail to luxury cutting boards. Although its availability may be limited and its cost high, its long-term performance and attractive appearance justify the investment in high-quality projects.

Visit our other kitchen accessories section.