Ebony Wand Wood

All known information about the properties of ebony wood comes from supplementary materials and not the original seven novels. Ebony is a jet-black wand wood with an impressive appearance and a reputation for being well-suited to combative magic and Transfiguration. It is considered an ideal match for a witch or wizard who possesses the courage to be themselves, often suiting non-conformists, highly individualistic people, or those comfortable with being outsiders. The perfect owner for an ebony wand is someone who holds fast to their personal beliefs, regardless of external pressure, and who will not be easily swayed from their purpose (Pottermore).

Ebony as a wand wood is not mentioned at any point in the seven original Harry Potter novels. Its characteristics and use in wandmaking are established entirely through later supplementary materials written by J.K. Rowling.

All canonical information regarding ebony wood was first published by J.K. Rowling on the Pottermore website. The key traits are as follows:

  • Appearance: It is a jet-black wood with an impressive appearance (Pottermore).
  • Strengths: It is highly suited for all types of combative magic and for Transfiguration (Pottermore).
  • Ideal Owner: Ebony finds its perfect match in a person who has the courage to be themselves, will hold fast to their beliefs under pressure, and will not be swayed from their purpose. This makes it suitable for non-conformists and highly individualistic wizards (Pottermore).
  • Allegiance: Reflecting its affinity for those with strong convictions, ebony wands have been found in the possession of both members of the Order of the Phoenix and Death Eaters (Pottermore).