Ekki

Ekki (Lophira alata)

 

 

Common names: Ekki, Azobe

 

Distribution: West Africa

 

Color/appearance: Heartwood is a dark reddish or violet brown. Pores contain light-colored mineral deposits which form small but conspicuous streaks throughout the wood. Sapwood is a pale pinkish white, with a gradual transition zone between the heartwood and sapwood.

 

Janka hardness: 3220 lb_f

 

Density: 5.5 lb/b.f.

 

Shrinkage:1

Radial (thickness): 8%

Tangential (width): 11.1%,

Volumetric (total): 18.3%,

T/R Ratio (width to depth): 1.4

 

Allergies/Toxicity: 1 Although severe reactions are quite uncommon, Ekki has been reported to cause skin irritation

 

Sustainability (listing):

 

CITES: NO

IUCN:  YES; Vulnerable  [1]

 

Common Uses: Bridges, boat-building, marine applications, decking, and flooring.

 

[1] On the IUCN Red List. It is listed as endangered due to a population reduction of approximately 20% in the past three generations, caused by a decline in its natural range, and exploitation.