Black Palmira Bowl Blank 4″ x 2″

Black Palmira, commonly known as Black Palm (Borassus species), an exotic and highly distinctive material used for decorative turning and fine craft work. Native to tropical regions of Asia and parts of Africa, Black Palm is valued not for its traditional wood grain, but for its striking, fibrous structure and bold visual contrast.

Unlike conventional hardwoods, Black Palm is a palm species rather than a true timber tree (similar to bamboo or grass). Its structure consists of dense, dark vascular fibres set within a lighter matrix, creating a dramatic speckled or streaked appearance when turned. This unique pattern makes every blank visually distinctive and especially eye-catching.

Black Palm has a long history of practical use in its native regions, traditionally employed for construction, tools, and flooring, where its high-density fibres provide excellent wear resistance. In modern woodworking, it is prized for decorative applications where its unusual texture and appearance can be showcased.

In terms of working properties, Black Palm is very dense and hard, particularly in the dark fibre areas. It requires sharp tools and careful technique, but rewards patience with a striking finish. Stabilisation or the use of a sanding sealer is often recommended to support the softer surrounding material and achieve a smooth, durable surface.

Please note: the sizes displayed are approximate only.
Due to timber coming from all over the world starting thicknesses vary up to 1/4“ depending on the origin. We use the umbrella guides of 1”,1.5”, 2”, 3” & 4”, but please be aware that all spindles are planed on one face to highlight the grain and to allow us to see faults which can result in under thickness.
This can result in spindles being under the thickness depending on the starting thickness. For example: Native Ash is often 2” x 2” after drying and before being planed. This can plane down to 1.75” and result in 1.75” x 2” spindles.