Review of wood properties of Acacia koa A. Gray (koa)

Koa wood is highly valued primarily because it has unique color, figure, and favorable working characteristics; however, little is known about its properties. Current information is inconsistent and is limited to few sources. Understanding the properties of diminishing old growth koa is important so that comparisons to planted koa can be made. Planted koa will serve as a substitute only if the value adding properties are present. This review reveals how difficult it is to characterize old growth and potentially plantation grown wood.