What is Dead Finish?
We often hear references to trees/ shrubs and their woods called DEAD FINISH. What is it? Good question.
There are a number of species (not varieties) that are given that common name. Importantly, their woods are VERY different because they are from different species and not all are Acacias. All have other names that make them less easily confused but people prefer to continue to use "dead finish” for the drama of it. Here are some species that are referred to as "dead finish”"
Acacia tetragonophylla (refers to its 4 sided spiky phyllodes, leaves of sorts) across much of dryland Australia. wood is very dense, fine textured and red brown in colour.
Acacia carneorum: another rare dryland acacia shrub with prickly phylodes, but with a bright purple heartwood, often cracked and with borer holes. Most grows in western NSW and is probably a protected species now.
Archidendropsis basaltica: Although a leguminous plant like acacias, it grows to a tree with ferny foliage, a pink-purple-red heartwood sometimes with dark streaks, and with a yellow sapwood. Its wood is dense and hard and an excellent turning wood. From central Queensland. Best called Red Lancewood.
There is even a eucalypt called dead finish Eucalyptus cloeziana, or Gympie Messmate (see Australian Trees and Shrubs) and a shrub Cassinia quinquefaria!
The more ambiguity the more confusion so unique / individual common names are preferred, avoiding poplar names.
I can post pics if interested.