ABOUT TIMBER // Tasmanian Oak

By Karryn & Dean

Tasmanian Oak // Illustration by Beth Emily for IN-TERIA

Also known as Victorian Ash, Mountain Ash, Alpine Ash, Gum-topped Stringybark, Australian Oak, Whitetop Stringybark, White-top, Woollybutt, Blue Leaf, and Mountain White Gum.

Tasmanian Oak refers to the hardwood produced by three trees - Eucalyptus regnans, Eucalyptus obliqua or Eucalyptus delegatensis - when it is sourced from Tasmania.

These species grow in the mountainous areas of Tasmania, Victoria and south-east NSW. E. delegatensis occurs at higher altitudes, while E. regnans is found in wetter sites; E. obliqua has a wide distribution, occurring in wet forests but extending into drier areas. When sourced in Victoria, E. regnans and E. delegatensis are known as Victorian Ash. 

The species are also widely known by their common names. E. obliqua is known as stringybark or messmate, E. regnans is known as mountain ash, and the closely related E. delegatensis is known as alpine ash or woollybutt. E. regnans are the tallest flowing tree in the world. They grow to 100m and produce clusters of creamy white (hermaphrodite) flowers. 

Out of interest, Eucalyptus is from the Greek prefix eu (well) and calyptos (covered), which refers to the eucalyptus flower in the bud stage which is 'well-covered' by a little cap.

Warm, dense and resilient, Tasmanian Oak is a versatile timber perfect for construction and interior applications, including framing, flooring, panelling, architraves and skirting boards, furniture and, of course, door hardware.

Tasmanian Oak is light in colour, varying from straw to reddish brown with intermediate shades of cream to pink. The timber works exceptionally well and produces an excellent finish. It is also recognised for its fantastic staining qualities. This species is usually sold quarter-sawn, which results in a straight, even grain. However, it is also sometimes available in a crown cut option.  

Tasmanian Oak is available in three grades: Select (SEL) Grade, Medium Feature–Standard (MF) or Standard Grade and High Feature (HF) or Common Grade. Select Grade timber has the most uniform appearance, while Medium and High Features contain more significant amounts of natural features such as gum, stains and knots.

IN-TERIA Split (FlapJack) // Tasmanian Oak with Diagonal Grain Feature

IN-TERIA O-Ring // Tasmanian Oak

IN-TERIA Meniscus // Tasmanian Oak

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