Bubinga is a very hard and heavy decorative species with a fine texture and high luster. It is found growing mostly in the Cameroons, Gabon, and the Ivory Coast of Africa. This is a large tree that can grow up to 150 feet with a diameter of up to 6 feet. The heartwood is pink, vivid red, or red brown with purple streaks or veins, on exposure becomes yellow or medium brown with a reddish tint, veining becomes less conspicuous; sapwood whitish and clearly demarcated. In most lumber, Bubinga has straight and or interlocked grain. Logs where the grain is slightly irregular are usually rotary cut into veneers by peeling. When cut this way, this species is referred to as Kevazingo.

Used extensively for turning it is also used for knife handles, brush backs, fine cabinetry, and furniture. Bubinga is also used for its decorative veneers as well as its attractive inlay characteristics and as a quality flooring material. With its color and figure resembling rosewood to a certain extent, its popularity has grown in recent years to all areas of the woodworking industry. This is a species to know and use whenever an elegant, attractive, and versatile wood is required.

This species works easily with hand and machine tools. There is a slight blunting of knives and occasional tear or chip out in the irregular or interlocked grain. All cutting edges must be kept sharp in order to avoid these problems. Bubinga will produce a fine finish and a high luster. This species glues well but has low steam bending quality.