Africa wenge wood, known for its rich brown color with darker black streaks, originates from the Millettia laurentii tree found in the forests of Central Africa. This dense and heavy wood is highly valued in furniture, flooring, and decorative arts due to its remarkable durability and striking appearance, which features a very distinct grain pattern often described as a partridge feather or coarse texture. Wenge wood is so dense that it sinks in water.
The scent profile of wenge wood is subtle yet distinctive. When freshly cut, the wood emits a slightly bitter, earthy aroma reminiscent of raw coffee beans or dark cocoa. This initial sharpness settles down into a milder, more muted woody fragrance as the wood ages or undergoes treatment. Due to its low resin content, wenge does not have a resinous or overly aromatic profile like some other exotic woods, making its scent appealing to those who prefer understated, natural wood fragrances. The scent of wenge is often associated with sophistication and has been utilized in various aromatic products to evoke an essence of elegance and exoticism.