Oak, Tasmanian

Tasmanian oak is the name used for three almost identical species of eucalypt hardwoods that are normally marketed collectively. E. delegatensis (alpine ash) occurs at higher altitudes, while E. regnans (mountain ash) is found in wetter sites; E. obliqua (messmate) has a wide distribution, occurring in wet forests but also extending into drier areas.

Warm, dense and resilient, Tasmanian oak is the preferred hardwood for a wide range of applications. It works extremely well and produces an excellent finish. It can be used in all forms of construction and in interior applications such as panelling and flooring. It can be glue-laminated to cover long spans. Veneers, plywood and engineered products are also available. It is also a popular furniture timber, and its fibre is sought after for reconstituted board and production of high quality paper.

Tasmanian oak is light in colour, varying from straw to reddish brown with intermediate shades of cream to pink. It is recognised for its excellent staining qualities, which allow ready matching with other timbers, finishes or furnishings.

Tasmanian oak is marketed under different names depending on where it is being sold. In Victoria and NSW; it is also sometimes mistakenly referred to as Victorian ash. It should be noted however that, unlike Victorian ash, Tasmania oak also includes messmate. Consequently, Tasmanian oak has a wider and less consistent colour mix. Importantly, it should also be noted that unlike Victorian ash, Tasmanian oak is susceptible to lyctid borer.