What Is Opepe?
Opepe is grown across many parts of Africa, including Liberia, Ghana and Nigeria. The trees can be up to 50m tall and 2m in diameter, making it possible to achieve large planks of Opepe around 9-10 m in length from them. It is one of the most durable, hard-wearing timbers available, and is relatively easy to work with for such a sturdy wood. It is often compared to Oak and can easily be used as an alternative. For construction projects which require tough timber, Opepe is always a smart choice.
Sourcing Sustainable Opepe
At EcoChoice, we only ever supply sustainably sourced timber, including FSC-certified Opepe. Coming from responsibly managed forests, you can be certain that native Opepe trees will never be over-harvested for your needs, helping you build with a good conscience.
FSC-certified woodlands are protected under strict rules and regulations, ensuring that the land is left to replenish naturally after harvesting and that local eco-systems remain intact. Surrounding communities are respected, local wildlife is protected and the landscape is looked after for future generations. As Opepe is listed as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, it is particularly important that it is responsibly managed to ensure the survival of the species. When you choose EcoChoice, you are choosing sustainably sourced Opepe.
Planed, Sawn, and Profiled to Your Specifications
All our Opepe can be planed, sawn and profiled to suit your project requirements. Whatever you need, we will do our best to make it happen. Our team can supply Opepe for a range of uses, including:
- Cladding
- Decking
- Marine fenders
- Joists
- Piling
- Flooring
- Exterior furniture
- Sleepers
It is important to note that Opepe does not bend well, even with steam, so oak is better suited to anything which requires curves.
Why Choose Opepe?
Opepe is incredibly strong and durable, with many preferring it to other timber species because of its hard-wearing nature. Compared to Oak, it usually out-performs in every category other than splitting and shock loads, and it can withstand high amounts of traffic without strain. A natural resistance to rot, fungal attack and insect infestation makes it suitable for a wide range of applications, including marine uses. Aside from poor bending, Opepe is easy to work with, and turns, glues and finishes very well. In terms of appearance, its unusual golden hue (sometimes an orange-brown colour) makes it a popular choice, adding something a little different to your timber project.
Order Opepe From EcoChoice
If Opepe sounds like the right timber for your project, our team can help. We can supply Opepe in a wide variety of sizes and profiles, ensuring that your timber works for you, and deliver it directly to your project site. To learn more about whether Opepe is the right choice for your project or to start an order, get in touch with our team today.
Opepe related insights
The botanical name of Opepe is Nauclea diderrichii. Opepe is a member of the Rubiaceae family. The original name of the tree is Bilinga, but is known as Opepe in England and Aloma in Germany.