Wood lexicon Wood species

Robinia

[Ro-bi-ni-e]; also known as acacia [Robinia pseudoacacia]; trade names: false acacia, Robinier faux acacia (F); Robinia false acacia (GB)

Robinia

Origin

USA, Southeast Europe

Raw density

0.69 – 0.79 g/cm³

Durability class

1-2

Radial shrinkage

4,4 %

Tangential shrinkage

6,9 %

Wood color

yellowish olive to brown

Wood structure

strikingly structured

Use

Wooden tiles, worktops, terrace wood

Origin – from North America to Europe

Robinia originates from eastern North America and was brought to Europe in the 17th century. Today it grows widely – even wild – and is an established neophyte. It is used for afforestation and technical wood utilization, especially in barren or dry locations. Due to its rapid spread, it is highly adaptable, making it economically attractive but ecologically sensitive. Its role in European forests is therefore both valuable and controversial.

Robust wood quality and versatile use

Robinia wood is one of the hardest and most durable European wood species. It has a high bulk density, good dimensional stability and a long service life outdoors – in some cases without additional wood protection. It is visually lively, with a golden-olive heartwood and striking structure. As a regional alternative to tropical woods, it is particularly suitable for terracesfences, pergolas, garden furniture or structural elements. Its advantage: excellent technical properties. However, the more it is used, the greater the responsibility for controlled management.

Neophyte – ecological benefit & risk at the same time

As a neophyte, robinia is controversial in Europe from a nature conservation perspective. It fixes nitrogen in the soil, changes nutrient and light conditions and can overgrow rare, nutrient-poor habitats. In Germany, it is therefore considered problematic from a nature conservation perspective, especially in dry grasslands and protected areas. Not every stand in this country comes from sustainable forestrysome are overgrown or spreading uncontrollably. Robinia is therefore both a valuable resource and a risk – responsible management determines whether it brings benefits or harm.

Sources: Wikipedia, Holz vom Fach(GD Holz)

from 230,00  sq m

from 240,00  sq m

from 240,00  sq m

6,50 

Cumaru wood tiles, FSC 100%
Price: 72 € per m2, resistance class: 1

Advantages: ✓ best durability ✓ particularly robust and scratch-resistant

Disadvantages: ✗ Partly rough surface

Tip:Sand tiles after initial weathering.

6,50 

Garapa wood tiles, FSC 100%
Price: 72 € per m2, resistance class: 1-2

Advantages: ✓ smooth surface ✓ homogeneous, light color

Disadvantages: ✗ Fabrics containing iron lead to discoloration

Tip: patio cleaning removes discoloration

6,50 

Jatoba wood tiles, FSC 100%
Price from: 72 € per m2, resistance class: 1-2

Advantages: ✓ smooth surface ✓ strong color and grain

Disadvantages:✗Unoiled tends to crack ✗ Colored ingredients wash out

Tip:Clean and oil tiles after laying.

7,50 

Teak wood tiles, FSC 100%
Price: € 83 per m2, resistance class: 1

Advantages:✓ Best durability and dimensional stability ✓ Lowest risk of cracking and splintering

Disadvantages: ✗ slightly more expensive

Tip: Decking oil is not necessary if silvering is desired.