August 2025

So you've decided to go with an Australian Timber floor but you don't know which one to choose! We often get questions about the difference between the Australian Species so we have listed some differences to make the decision easier for you.

Blackbutt

An extremely well known and popular flooring option within Australia named after the black shade of its bark. 'Blackbutt' is primarily grown in the coastal regions of southern New South Wales up to south east Queensland, with a quick growth rate making it readily available timber on the east coast of Australia. 'Blackbutt' comprises of a range of colours from pale brown to yellowing brown with a fairly straight grain and even texture.

More consistent colour than other Australian species (of course, still variation)

Mostly straight running grain

Suits most homes and styles

Spotted Gum

The common name 'Spotted Gum' is used for four different types Corymbias grown along the east coast of Australia but most commonly refers to the Corymbia Maculata species. The name 'Spotted Gum' originates from the pale bark in the tree trunks which leave a spotted appearance once shed. 'Spotted Gum' compromises of a great range of colours from a light brown to dark reddish brown to grey green. The grain is often wavy and the texture of 'Spotted Gum' is coarse and uneven making it very unique.

Unique in colouring, great for a statement floor

Greater variation in colour, texture and grain

Great for larger spaces

Tasmanian Oak (Vic Ash)

Tasmanian Oak, often referred to as Victorian Ash when sourced from Victoria, is a premium Australian hardwood, known for its versatility and warm, light tones ranging from pale straw to light brown, it brings a sense of spaciousness and brightness to interiors.

Colour - Pale straw and light brown to soft pinks
Grain - Straight and even
Style - Suited to homes with a modern, contemporary look

Tasmanian Oak provides a more contemporary Australian timber look, with less prominent colour variation and steady features, Tassie Oak is a favourite for those seeking more neutral floor while maintaining the charm of Australian Timber.

Tallowwood

Tallowwood (Eucalyptus microcorys) is a highly durable Australian hardwood native to the coastal regions of New South Wales and Queensland. Its distinctive golden honey tones, sometimes tinged with olive, and its interlocked grain pattern give it a unique and attractive appearance.

Colour - Golden honey with olive hues
Grain - Interlocked with a moderately coarse texture
Style - Suited to most homes and styles

Tallowwood offers a more consistent appearance across the wood, adding warm brown and honey tones through the home.

Grey Ironbark

Grey Ironbark is a premium Australian hardwood renowned for its strength, durability, and rich, earthy tones. Native to New South Wales and Queensland, it’s a popular choice for flooring due to its impressive hardness and refined appearance.

Colour: Pale brown to dark chocolate
Grain: Tight, interlocked grain with a moderately coarse texture
Style - Suited to most homes, particularly classic homes with a traditional feel

Grey Ironbark's exceptional density makes it one of the toughest timbers available in Australia, perfectly suited for high-traffic residential areas. Its natural resistance to termites, rot, and wear ensures longevity, while its distinctive colour variation and striking grain make it a favourite for those seeking both performance and aesthetic appeal.

*Keep in mind, that as timber is a natural material, variations in colour, grain etc will always be present and care must be taken when selecting from small samples.