The xylem anatomy of 28 species of commercially and potentially commercial timbers of West Africa is described together with information pertaining to seasoning qualities, durability and working properties, as well as the uses of wood. A comprehensive discussion on the mechanical properties, establishing the methodologies for evaluating the potential utilization of these woods, has been included. Shrinkage and swelling in wood have always presented problems in the utilization of woods. A discussion relating to the differences among (a) moisture content change and shrinkage, (b) the effect of drying conditions on shrinkage and (c) the variation in shrinkage in different species is presented. To aid both beginning students and to refresh the minds of practicing wood technologists, a glossary of the principal terms used in describing the minute features of timbers has also been added.