Dabema (Piptadeniastrum africanum), of the Leguminosae family, is a hardwood from tropical West Africa. Its heartwood, yellow brown to golden brown, contrasts sharply with a grey white sapwood of 30 to 50 mm; when fresh, it gives off a marked ammoniacal smell. The grain is interlocked and the texture coarse. The species has a strong blunting effect on tools, especially when sawing; gluing is moderate to poor and pre-drilling is recommended. Used in vehicle bodywork, in construction and as a substitute for oak, it calls for precautions on account of its tendency to shrink. Its natural durability is rated class 2-3. Callens African Woods offers it as hardwood sawn timber, within a range under FSC® chain of custody.
