What Is Acacia Wood? All You Need to Know

Discover all you need to know about acacia wood—its durability, uses, benefits, and care tips. Learn why this sustainable hardwood is perfect for furniture, flooring, and more!

Author

Deng Xiang
June 06, 2025

Acacia wood is a popular hardwood used in furniture, flooring, kitchenware, and even outdoor construction. Known for its rich color, natural durability, and attractive grain, acacia has gained a reputation as one of the most beautiful and sustainable hardwoods on the market.

In this guide you’ll learn everything you need to know about acacia wood: its origin, characteristics, pros and cons, common uses, care tips, and how it compares to other types of wood!

Table of Contents

What Is Acacia Wood?

What Is Acacia Wood

Acacia wood comes from trees and shrubs of the Acacia genus, which includes over 1,000 species native to Australia, Asia, Africa, and parts of the Americas. In the lumber industry, “acacia wood” generally refers to the hardwood harvested from these trees, especially the Acacia mangium and Acacia koa species.

These trees grow rapidly, often maturing within 5–10 years, making them a more sustainable option compared to slower-growing hardwoods like oak or maple.

Acacia Wood

Key Characteristics of Acacia Wood

Acacia wood is prized for a number of characteristics that make it ideal for a variety of applications:

1. Durability

Acacia is incredibly dense and hard—denser than oak, maple, and even teak. On the Janka hardness scale (a measure of wood’s resistance to denting and wear), acacia scores between 1,500 and 2,300, depending on the species.

2. Natural Resistance

Thanks to its high oil content and tight grain, acacia is naturally resistant to:

  • Water and moisture damage

  • Scratches and dents

  • Fungi and pests

These features make it suitable for outdoor use (with proper sealing) and high-traffic indoor environments.

3. Aesthetic Appeal

Acacia wood has a naturally rich color palette—ranging from light amber and golden hues to deep reddish-browns—with striking grain patterns and knots. Its visual appeal is one of the main reasons it's favored for furniture and decorative items.

Common Uses of Acacia Wood

Because of its strength and beauty, acacia wood is used in a wide range of products:

1. Furniture

From dining tables and bed frames to chairs and cabinets, acacia furniture is popular for both its durability and stylish look.

2. Flooring

Acacia wood flooring is a premium option, offering a distinct look and long lifespan. It's often used in homes seeking a rustic, warm aesthetic.

3. Cutting Boards and Kitchenware

Acacia is food-safe and antibacterial by nature, making it ideal for cutting boards, bowls, and utensils.

4. Outdoor Applications

When properly treated, acacia can be used for decks, patio furniture, and even fences.

Pros and Cons of Acacia Wood

Like any material, acacia wood has its benefits and drawbacks.

✅ Pros:

  • Highly durable and scratch-resistant

  • Naturally water-resistant

  • Sustainable due to fast-growing species

  • Beautiful grain and color variations

  • Versatile (suitable for indoor and outdoor use)

❌ Cons:

  • Can be expensive compared to softer woods like pine

  • Requires maintenance to preserve its finish, especially outdoors

  • Color variation may be too bold for minimalist interiors

  • Susceptible to cracking if not properly dried or maintained

Let’s compare acacia to some other commonly used woods:

Wood Type

Hardness (Janka)

Durability

Appearance

Cost

Acacia

1,500–2,300

Excellent

Bold grain, rich hues

Medium to High

Oak

1,200–1,400

Very Good

Uniform grain, light to medium brown

Medium

Teak

~1,070

Excellent (especially outdoors)

Golden-brown, oily texture

High

Pine

~380–870

Low

Pale, softer grain

Low

Acacia sits between oak and teak in terms of performance and price. It offers many of teak’s benefits—like water resistance—at a more accessible price point.

Is Acacia Wood Eco-Friendly?

Yes—with some caveats.

Because acacia trees grow quickly and can thrive in poor soil conditions, they are often used in reforestation and sustainable forestry projects. This makes them more environmentally friendly compared to slower-growing hardwoods.

However, not all acacia wood on the market is harvested sustainably. Look for certifications like FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) to ensure the wood was responsibly sourced.

Caring for Acacia Wood

To maximize the lifespan and appearance of your acacia wood products, follow these care tips:

1. Cleaning

  • Use a soft cloth and mild soap for regular cleaning.

  • Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.

2. Conditioning

  • Apply a food-safe mineral oil or furniture wax every few months to maintain moisture and luster.

3. Avoid Excess Moisture

  • Although water-resistant, prolonged exposure to water can cause damage. Wipe up spills quickly.

4. UV Protection

  • For outdoor use, apply a UV-resistant sealant to prevent fading and cracking from sun exposure.

How to Identify Genuine Acacia Wood

Because of its rising popularity, some manufacturers may mislabel or sell lower-quality woods under the acacia name.

Here’s how to spot genuine acacia:

  • Grain: Bold and irregular with a mix of light and dark tones

  • Weight: Heavier than most hardwoods

  • Scratch test: It resists minor scratching better than softer woods

Buying from reputable sources and looking for certifications will also help you avoid imitations.

Final Thoughts

Acacia wood strikes a rare balance between beauty, strength, and sustainability. Whether you’re looking for durable flooring, stylish furniture, or eco-conscious kitchenware, acacia offers a compelling option that combines form and function.

If you’re ready to invest in a timeless, naturally stunning material, acacia wood is well worth considering.

FAQ

Is acacia wood good for outdoor furniture?

Yes, but it needs to be sealed and maintained to protect it from moisture and UV damage.

Does acacia wood scratch easily?

No. It's one of the more scratch-resistant hardwoods, thanks to its density.

Is acacia wood expensive?

It’s more affordable than teak or mahogany but usually pricier than pine or rubberwood.

Is acacia wood safe for food contact?

Yes, untreated acacia is naturally antibacterial and safe for cutting boards and bowls.