Blackbutt is a readily available commercial Australian hardwood that is commonly used for structural and exterior installations.
Blackbutt grows quickly so is easy to regenerate as plantation timber – making it a sound environmental choice.
Its name describes the buttress or butt of a tree after a bushfire when it becomes significantly darker. It is also known as Coastal Blackbutt, which helps distinguish from a different species, New England Blackbutt.
Common Name: Blackbutt
Scientific Name: Eucalyptus pilularis
Other names: Coastal Blackbutt, Pink Blackbutt
Distribution: Blackbutt is found in the coastal regions of New South Wales and Southern Queensland.
Appearance: The heartwood ranges from golden yellow to pale brown, sometimes with a pinkish hue. The sapwood is even paler.
Plantation Blackbutt tends to have a less varied, and a more even appearance than wild Blackbutt.
Texture: Blackbutt has an even texture and usually has a straight grain, however it is sometimes interlocked. Gum veins are also quite common in Blackbutt.
Properties: Blackbutt is a very dense and highly durable hardwood with natural resistance to termites and fire. It also has a high extractives content with a tendency to surface check on the tangential face.
Versatile Blackbutt can be used for a range of structural, exterior and interior applications including building framework, decking, flooring, posts and poles. It can also be used for cladding or in engineering applications such as bridge construction or sleepers.
The species is strong and highly durable making it a good choice for exterior decking and areas with high footfall. It lends itself well to Cutek’s timber protection oil, and the Colourtones can also be used to enhance the look.
Blackbutt’s even appearance also makes it a popular choice for interior installations and joinery. The timber can be stained, painted or polished. The wood has a tendency to surface check after painting due to a high level of extractives associated with mature timber. Surface checking can be more marked when used outdoors and exposed to the elements.
Blackbutt stands up to tough climatic conditions and is a great choice when durability is paramount or in areas prone to bushfires.
