The Wood Database

Parenchyma:PARENCHYMA
Describes the pattern(s) of the parenchyma cells seen on the endgrain, such as vasicentric, aliform (winged or lozenge), confluent, and banded.

Click on the link “Parenchyma” for more details. diffuse-in-aggregates

IUCN Status:
Vulnerable

CITES Status:
Appendix II

Color/Appearance: Has a uniform yellow to pinkish-brown color, with sapwood indistinct from heartwood.

Grain/Texture: Fine texture and a straight or slightly interlocked grain.

Rot Resistance: Non-durable; poor resistance to decay or insect attack. Good acid resistance.

Rated as very durable, with good insect resistance.

Rated as moderately durable to non-durable; poor resistance to decay and insect attack.

Workability: Easy to work with both hand and machine tools. Turns, glues, and finishes well.

Odor: No characteristic odor.

Has an unpleasant odor when freshly cut.

Has a distinct odor while being worked.

Allergies/Toxicity: Besides the standard health risks associated with any type of wood dust, no further health reactions have been associated with eastern redbud—possibly due to its relative obscurity.

There have been no health effects associated specifically with coracao de negro, though this may be due to its relative obscurity. However, other Swartzia species have been reported to cause skin and respiratory irritation in some individuals.

Although severe reactions are quite uncommon, Cypress has been reported as a sensitizer. Although severe reactions are quite uncommon, sucupira has been reported to cause skin irritation.

See the articles Wood Allergies and Toxicity and Wood Dust Safety for more information.

Pricing/Availability: Seldom available in North America. Prices should be moderate when compared to other imported lumber.

Sustainability: This wood species is not listed in the CITES Appendices, and is reported by the IUCN as being a species of least concern.

This wood species is not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

This wood species is not listed in the CITES Appendices, but is on the IUCN Red List. It is listed as vulnerable due to a population reduction of over 20% in the past three generations, caused by a decline in its natural range, and exploitation.

This wood species is in CITES Appendix II, and is on the IUCN Red List. It is listed as endangered due to a population reduction of over 50% in the past three generations, caused by a decline in its natural range, and exploitation.

Common Uses: A general-purpose lumber used for furniture, interior millwork, plywood, and flooring.

Comments: None.

Images: Drag the slider up/down to toggle between raw and finished wood.

The sample below was collected several decades ago and the backside contains a label indicating it came from the Guangdong Academy of Forestry. The sample is slightly under the standard 6″ x 3″ size used on this website, so the image may appear slightly “stretched” with the grain and features looking slightly larger than 1:1.

Huanghuali with sapwood

Do you have images of projects made from this wood species? You can submit them to me here.

Identification: See the article on Hardwood Anatomy for definitions of end grain features.

Huanghuali (end grain 10x)

Huanghuali (end grain 1x)

Porosity:POROSITY
Specifies the overall pore structure (ring-porous, semi-ring-porous, or diffuse porous), and notes if annual growth rings may still be seen even for diffuse porous hardwoods.

Click on the link “Porosity” for more details. diffuse porous; growth rings sometimes subtly discernible due to decrease in pore frequency in latewood

Arrangement:ARRANGEMENT
Describes the more individual pore arrangements found throughout the end grain surface, such as solitary, multiples, chains, clusters, etc.

Click on the link “Arrangement” for more details. solitary and radial multiples

Vessels:VESSELS
Describes the relative size and frequency of the pores (vessels), as well as any contents found in the pores, such as tyloses, colored mineral deposits, etc.

Click on the link “Vessels” for more details. medium to large, few to moderately numerous

Rays:RAYS
Describes the relative width and frequency of the rays (appearing as thin vertical lines on the endgrain), as well as a note on if these rays are visible with/without magnification.

Click on the link “Rays” for more details. rays of two distinct sizes: narrow to medium width, normal spacing; rays are just barely visible without magnification

Lookalikes/Substitutes: None.

Notes: None.

Hardwoods
(Wood Type)

Fabaceae
(Family)

Dalbergia
(Genus)

odorifera
(Species)

T. Chen
(Authority)

Rosewood, Siamese
(Dalbergia cochinchinensis)

WOOD! Identifying and Using Hundreds of Woods Worldwide All that makes The Wood Database unique, distilled into one potent book.

Restricted and Endangered Wood Species From CITES appendices to IUCN status, what you need to know about today’s wood situation.

Worldwide Woods, Ranked by Hardness Over 500 woods arranged into eight geographic regions and ranked by Janka hardness—all on one 24″ x 36″ poster.

Halo Woods (and Shady Naming Practices Well known woods can have their “brand recognition” stolen by unknown newcomers.

Finishing Exotic and Tropical Hardwoods Some woods can turn the finishing process into a gummy mess. Here’s how to avoid common pitfalls.

Ebony: Dark Outlook for Dark Woods? Learn what makes dark woods like ebony so expensive, as well as future availability, and possible substitutes.

Gluing Oily Tropical Hardwoods What do you do when the wood you’re working with seems impervious to moisture?

Preventing Color Changes in Exotic Woods Nearly all wood tends to turn brown over time. Here’s what you can do to maintain color longer.

Are Rosewoods (and Bubinga) Really Banned by CITES? Learn why the world’s rosewood supplies seem to be disappearing faster than ever before.

Wood Allergies and Toxicity All wood dust poses a threat to our physical health, but some species are worse than others.

Wood Filter Search, sort, and filter hundreds of woods from across the globe and break out of the ordinary!

The post Huanghuali appeared first on The Wood Database.

Thinwin

Eric — Tue, 22 Jul 2025 13:30:07 +0000

> Hardwoods > Fabaceae > Imbralyx > leucanthus

DATA SOURCE(S): 36,37,43,68

Thinwin (Imbralyx leucanthus)

Common Name(s): Thinwin, khacho, ต้นสาธร (sathorn)

Scientific Name: Imbralyx leucanthus, very commonly listed as Millettia genus under older synonyms M. leucantha or M. pendula (see notes below)

Distribution: Southeast Asia

Tree Size: 50–65 ft (15–20 m) tall,
1–2 ft (.3–.6 m) trunk diameter

Average Dried Weight:AVERAGE DRIED WEIGHT
Density is the measurement of a wood’s weight per unit volume. Here, "dried weight" specifically refers to wood at 12% moisture content, and values are given in pounds per cubic foot and kilograms per cubic meter. Also keep in mind that density commonly varies by +/- 10% from the average.

Click on the link "Average Dried Weight" for more details. 69.4 lbs/ft³ (1,110 kg/m³) Very High WEIGHT TIERS
Extremely Low:     0+ kg/m³
Very Low:   420+ kg/m³
Low:   520+ kg/m³
Medium-Low:   620+ kg/m³
Medium:   730+ kg/m³
Medium-High:   840+ kg/m³
High:   960+ kg/m³
Very High: 1,080+ kg/m³
Extremely High: 1,200+ kg/m³
Tiers are based on CSIRO provisional strength groupings (SD1-SD8) based on density.

Janka Hardness:JANKA HARDNESS
This test measures a wood’s resistance to indentation, and is the pounds of force (or Newtons) required to embed a .444" (11.28 mm) diameter steel ball halfway into the wood. Values are for side grain, measured at 12% MC.

Click on the link "Janka Hardness" for more details. 2,760 lb_f (12,300 N) High JANKA HARDNESS TIERS
Extremely Low:      0+ N
Very Low:  2,050+ N
Low:  3,150+ N
Medium-Low:  4,480+ N
Medium:  6,280+ N
Medium-High:  8,380+ N
High: 11,080+ N
Very High: 14,000+ N
Extremely High: 17,450+ N
Tiers are derived from CSIRO provisional strength classifications (SD1-SD8) in conjunction with the USDA's estimated hardness based on density.

Modulus of Rupture:MODULUS OF RUPTURE
Sometimes called bending strength, this test measures a wood’s strength before breaking (i.e., rupturing). Values are given in pounds of force per square inch and megapascals, measured at 12% MC.

Click on the link "Modulus of Rupture" for more details. 20,720 lb_f/in² (142.9 MPa) Very High MOR TIERS
Extremely Low:   0+ MPa
Very Low:  45+ MPa
Low:  55+ MPa
Medium-Low:  65+ MPa
Medium:  78+ MPa
Medium-High:  94+ MPa
High: 110+ MPa
Very High: 130+ MPa
Extremely High: 150+ MPa
Tiers are based on CSIRO strength classifications (SD1-SD8).

Elastic Modulus:MODULUS OF ELASTICITY
This test measures the wood’s level of deformation when under a given load. Higher values indicate less deformation (i.e., stiffer). Values are given in pounds of force per square inch and gigapascals, measured at 12% MC.

Click on the link "Elastic Modulus" for more details. 2,066,000 lb_f/in² (14.25 GPa) Medium-High MOE TIERS
Extremely Low:    0+ GPa
Very Low:  7.9+ GPa
Low:  9.1+ GPa
Medium-Low: 10.5+ GPa
Medium: 12.5+ GPa
Medium-High: 14.0+ GPa
High: 16.0+ GPa
Very High: 18.5+ GPa
Extremely High: 21.5+ GPa
Tiers are based on CSIRO strength classifications (SD1-SD8).

Crushing Strength:CRUSHING STRENGTH
Also called compression strength, this test measures the maximum stress sustained before failure. Force is applied parallel to the grain (producing stress akin to chair legs). Values are given in pounds of force per square inch and megapascals, measured at 12% MC.

Click on the link "Crushing Strength" for more details. 10,150 lb_f/in² (70.0 MPa) Very High CRUSHING STRENGTH TIERS
Extremely Low: 0+ MPa
Very Low: 30+ MPa
Low: 36+ MPa
Medium-Low: 41+ MPa
Medium: 47+ MPa
Medium-High: 54+ MPa
High: 61+ MPa
Very High: 70+ MPa
Extremely High: 80+ MPa
Tiers are based on CSIRO strength classifications (SD1-SD8).

Shrinkage:SHRINKAGE
These values represent the percentage change in radial and tangential faces of the wood—as well as the total (volumetric) shrinkage—as the moisture content goes from green (maximum) down to oven-dry (minimum), approximating the wood's stability with changes in humidity. T/R ratio helps to estimate the uniformity of the shrinkage across different wood faces.

Click on the link "Shrinkage" for more details. Radial: 4.3%, Tangential: 7.7% High SHRINKAGE TIERS
Very Low:   0%+
Low: 3.6%+
Medium: 5.1%+
High: 6.6%+
Very High: 8.1%+
Tiers are based on tangential shrinkage (green to oven-dry) from CSIRO shrinkage classifications (1-5).
                          Volumetric: 12.2%, T/R Ratio: 1.8

IUCN Status:
Least Concern

CITES Status:
Unlisted

Color/Appearance: Heartwood is medium to dark reddish brown with thin dark stripes.

Grain/Texture: Coarse texture and a straight or slightly interlocked grain.

Rot Resistance: Rated as very durable.

Workability: Easy to work with both hand and machine tools. Turns, glues, and finishes well.

Odor: No characteristic odor.

Allergies/Toxicity: There have been no health effects associated specifically with thinwin, though this may be due to its relative obscurity. However, thinwin has been shown to contain a number of unique compounds in both the bark and heartwood,^[1]Phrutivorapongkul, Ampai, et al. (2003). Studies on the chemical constituents of stem bark of Millettia leucantha: isolation of new chalcones with cytotoxic, anti-herpes simplex virus and … Continue reading^[2]Rayanil, K. O., Bunchornmaspan, P., & Tuntiwachwuttikul, P. (2011). A new phenolic compound with anticancer activity from the wood of Millettia leucantha. Archives of pharmacal research, 34(6), … Continue reading and is likely to produce adverse reactions like closely related commercial Millettia species. See the articles Wood Allergies and Toxicity and Wood Dust Safety for more information.

Pricing/Availability: Seldom available in North America. Prices should be moderate when compared to other imported lumber.

Sustainability: This wood species is not listed in the CITES Appendices, and is reported by the IUCN as being a species of least concern.

Common Uses: A general-purpose lumber used for furniture, interior millwork, plywood, and flooring.

Comments: This species has been moved out of the Millettia genus into the Imbralyx genus.^[3]SONG, Z. Q. (2021). New combinations and re-lectotypification in the genus Imbralyx (Fabaceae: Millettieae). Phytotaxa, 525(3), 228

Images: Drag the slider up/down to toggle between raw and finished wood.

Thinwin with flat to rift sawn grain

Do you have images of projects made from this wood species? You can submit them to me here.

Identification: See the article on Hardwood Anatomy for definitions of end grain features.

Thinwin (end grain 10x)

Thinwin (end grain 1x)

Porosity:POROSITY
Specifies the overall pore structure (ring-porous, semi-ring-porous, or diffuse porous), and notes if annual growth rings may still be seen even for diffuse porous hardwoods.

Click on the link “Porosity” for more details. diffuse porous; growth rings sometimes very subtly discernible due to thin marginal parenchyma bands interrupting the wider regular parenchyma bands

Rays:RAYS
Describes the relative width and frequency of the rays (appearing as thin vertical lines on the endgrain), as well as a note on if these rays are visible with/without magnification.

Click on the link “Rays” for more details. narrow width, normal spacing; rays not visible without magnification

Lookalikes/Substitutes: Wenge and panga panga.

Notes: The parenchyma bands on thinwin are very closely spaced—approximately 75-90 bands per inch. (The sample pictured here, representing a half an inch in thickness, appears to have just over 40 such bands on the 1x magnification image, equal to roughly 80+ parenchyma bands per inch.)

Hardwoods
(Wood Type)

Fabaceae
(Family)

Imbralyx
(Genus)

leucanthus
(Species)

(Kurz) Z.Q.Song
(Authority)

Related Species: This species has formerly been in Millettia, and is still in the broader Millettieae tribe. There aren't any other commerical lumber species in the Imbralyx genus; Millettia species are listed below for reference.

Rosewood, Siamese
(Dalbergia cochinchinensis)

Ebony: Dark Outlook for Dark Woods? Learn what makes dark woods like ebony so expensive, as well as future availability, and possible substitutes.

Preventing Color Changes in Exotic Woods Nearly all wood tends to turn brown over time. Here’s what you can do to maintain color longer.

Finishing Exotic and Tropical Hardwoods Some woods can turn the finishing process into a gummy mess. Here’s how to avoid common pitfalls.

Worldwide Woods, Ranked by Hardness Over 500 woods arranged into eight geographic regions and ranked by Janka hardness—all on one 24″ x 36″ poster.

Gluing Oily Tropical Hardwoods What do you do when the wood you’re working with seems impervious to moisture?

References[+]

References
↑1	Phrutivorapongkul, Ampai, et al. (2003). Studies on the chemical constituents of stem bark of Millettia leucantha: isolation of new chalcones with cytotoxic, anti-herpes simplex virus and anti-inflammatory activities. Chemical and Pharmaceutical bulletin, 51(2), 187-190.
↑2	Rayanil, K. O., Bunchornmaspan, P., & Tuntiwachwuttikul, P. (2011). A new phenolic compound with anticancer activity from the wood of Millettia leucantha. Archives of pharmacal research, 34(6), 881-886.
↑3	SONG, Z. Q. (2021). New combinations and re-lectotypification in the genus Imbralyx (Fabaceae: Millettieae). Phytotaxa, 525(3), 228

The post Thinwin appeared first on The Wood Database.

Camatillo

Eric — Sat, 05 Jul 2025 02:43:39 +0000

> Hardwoods > Fabaceae > Dalbergia > congestiflora

DATA SOURCE(S): 28,36,64,65,66

Camatillo (Dalbergia congestiflora)

Common Name(s): Camatillo (also spelled as camotillo), Mexican kingwood, campincerán

Scientific Name: Dalbergia congestiflora

Distribution: Mexico

Tree Size: 10–24 ft (3–8 m) tall,
6–8 in (15–20 cm) trunk diameter

Average Dried Weight:AVERAGE DRIED WEIGHT
Density is the measurement of a wood’s weight per unit volume. Here, "dried weight" specifically refers to wood at 12% moisture content, and values are given in pounds per cubic foot and kilograms per cubic meter. Also keep in mind that density commonly varies by +/- 10% from the average.

Click on the link "Average Dried Weight" for more details. 72.9 lbs/ft³ (1,165 kg/m³) Very High WEIGHT TIERS
Extremely Low:     0+ kg/m³
Very Low:   420+ kg/m³
Low:   520+ kg/m³
Medium-Low:   620+ kg/m³
Medium:   730+ kg/m³
Medium-High:   840+ kg/m³
High:   960+ kg/m³
Very High: 1,080+ kg/m³
Extremely High: 1,200+ kg/m³
Tiers are based on CSIRO provisional strength groupings (SD1-SD8) based on density.

Janka Hardness:JANKA HARDNESS
This test measures a wood’s resistance to indentation, and is the pounds of force (or Newtons) required to embed a .444" (11.28 mm) diameter steel ball halfway into the wood. Values are for side grain, measured at 12% MC.

Click on the link "Janka Hardness" for more details. 3,050 lb_f (13,550 N) High JANKA HARDNESS TIERS
Extremely Low:      0+ N
Very Low:  2,050+ N
Low:  3,150+ N
Medium-Low:  4,480+ N
Medium:  6,280+ N
Medium-High:  8,380+ N
High: 11,080+ N
Very High: 14,000+ N
Extremely High: 17,450+ N
Tiers are derived from CSIRO provisional strength classifications (SD1-SD8) in conjunction with the USDA's estimated hardness based on density.

Elastic Modulus:MODULUS OF ELASTICITY
This test measures the wood’s level of deformation when under a given load. Higher values indicate less deformation (i.e., stiffer). Values are given in pounds of force per square inch and gigapascals, measured at 12% MC.

Click on the link "Elastic Modulus" for more details. 2,706,000 lb_f/in² (18.66 GPa) Very High MOE TIERS
Extremely Low:    0+ GPa
Very Low:  7.9+ GPa
Low:  9.1+ GPa
Medium-Low: 10.5+ GPa
Medium: 12.5+ GPa
Medium-High: 14.0+ GPa
High: 16.0+ GPa
Very High: 18.5+ GPa
Extremely High: 21.5+ GPa
Tiers are based on CSIRO strength classifications (SD1-SD8).

IUCN Status:
Endangered

CITES Status:
Appendix II

Color/Appearance: Heartwood is a dark purplish or reddish brown with darker black streaks. Sapwood is pale yellow and sharply demarcated from the heartwood. Bears a strong resemblance to Brazilian kingwood. Camatillo’s violet color is actually quite notable, and is suspected to be more stable than other Dalbergia species.^[1]Richter, H. G., Krause, V. J., & Muche, C. (1996). Dalbergia congestiflora Standl.: wood structure and physico-chemical properties compared with other Central American species of Dalbergia. Iawa … Continue reading This coloration comes in part from a unique chemical compound found in the heartwood, neocandenatone.^[2]Barragán-Huerta, B. E., Peralta-Cruz, J., González-Laredo, R. F., & Karchesy, J. (2004). Neocandenatone, an isoflavan-cinnamylphenol quinone methide pigment from Dalbergia congestiflora. … Continue reading

Grain/Texture: Grain is usually straight or slightly interlocked. Fine, uniform texture and a high natural luster.

Rot Resistance: Although there have been no studies done on camatillo in particular, it is assumed to be comparable to other closely related Dalbergia species, i.e., very durable regarding decay and termite resistance.

Workability: Tends to be difficult to work due to its high density. Camatillo has a moderate blunting effect on cutters, and tearout can occur during planing if interlocked grain is present. Can be difficult to glue due to natural oils and high density. Turns very well and takes a high polish.

Odor: Distinct, rosewood-like odor when being worked.

Allergies/Toxicity: Although severe reactions are quite uncommon, camatillo has been reported to cause skin irritation.^[3]Cai, S. C. S., Chong, T. Y. R., Goon, A. T. J., Leow, Y. H., & Cheng, S. W. N. (2024). Taking aim at the wood: Allergic contact dermatitis in a rifle shooting athlete. Contact … Continue reading Because of the obscurity of camatillo, more specific reports are lacking, but given its unique chemical makeup,^[4]Martínez-Sotres, C., López-Albarrán, P., Cruz-de-León, J., García-Moreno, T., Rutiaga-Quiñones, J. G., Vázquez-Marrufo, G., … & Herrera-Bucio, R. (2012). Medicarpin, an antifungal … Continue reading^[5]Barragán-Huerta, B. E., Peralta-Cruz, J., González-Laredo, R. F., & Karchesy, J. (2004). Neocandenatone, an isoflavan-cinnamylphenol quinone methide pigment from Dalbergia congestiflora. … Continue reading as well as the well-documented allergens found in many Dalbergia species, it’s likely that camatillo wood is an irritant and sensitizer.^[6]Saha, S., Shilpi, J. A., Mondal, H., Hossain, F., Anisuzzman, M., Hasan, M. M., & Cordell, G. A. (2013). Ethnomedicinal, phytochemical, and pharmacological profile of the genus Dalbergia … Continue reading See the articles Wood Allergies and Toxicity and Wood Dust Safety for more information.

Pricing/Availability: Likely to be very expensive, and seldom available as lumber due to the rarity and small size of the tree itself. More recently, as positive identifications have become more commonplace (it was previously just mixed with Mexican shipments of cocobolo),^[7]Richter, H. G., Krause, V. J., & Muche, C. (1996). Dalbergia congestiflora Standl.: wood structure and physico-chemical properties compared with other Central American species of Dalbergia. Iawa … Continue reading camatillo has been made available on a very limited basis, and is most often seen as smaller turning stock, with its cost being on par with other scarce rosewoods in the Dalbergia genus.

Sustainability: Camatillo is listed on CITES appendix II under the genus-wide restriction on all Dalbergia species—which also includes finished products made of the wood (though finished items under 10 kilograms are exempted). Additionally, camatillo is on the IUCN Red List. It is listed as endangered due to a population reduction of over 50% in the past three generations, caused by a decline in its natural range, and exploitation.

Common Uses: Inlays, veneers, musical instruments, tool handles, and other small turned and/or specialty items.

Comments: Although camatillo bears the closest visual resemblance to kingwood (Dalbergia cearensis), in the context of rosewood harvest, it has been much more often confused with a Mexican species of cocobolo (D. granadillo)—it seems it was originally mixed in with such cocobolo and sold as a violet variation of that wood.^[8]Richter, H. G., Krause, V. J., & Muche, C. (1996). Dalbergia congestiflora Standl.: wood structure and physico-chemical properties compared with other Central American species of Dalbergia. Iawa … Continue reading One local source in Colima (western Mexico) reports that camatillo trees are quite rare, occurring at a ratio of only 1:50 compared with the local cocobolo (D. granadillo).^[9]Richter, H. G., Krause, V. J., & Muche, C. (1996). Dalbergia congestiflora Standl.: wood structure and physico-chemical properties compared with other Central American species of Dalbergia. Iawa … Continue reading

Images: Drag the slider up/down to toggle between raw and finished wood.

Camatillo with sapwood

Do you have images of projects made from this wood species? You can submit them to me here.

Identification: See the article on Hardwood Anatomy for definitions of end grain features.

Camatillo (end grain 10x)

Camatillo (end grain 1x)

Rays:RAYS
Describes the relative width and frequency of the rays (appearing as thin vertical lines on the endgrain), as well as a note on if these rays are visible with/without magnification.

Click on the link “Rays” for more details. narrow width, normal to close spacing; rays not visible without magnification

Lookalikes/Substitutes: Kingwood (Dalbergia cearensis) is very similar in appearance and weight. However, they can usually be separated based on the parenchyma. True kingwood usually has more sparse and thin parenchyma bands (usually at the annual growth margins), while camatillo tends to have wider parenchyma bands that can be several cells wide.

Notes: Because of the very dark color of the heartwood, it can be helpful to use the lighter sapwood (if present) to look at the wood anatomy.

Hardwoods
(Wood Type)

Fabaceae
(Family)

Dalbergia
(Genus)

congestiflora
(Species)

Pittier
(Authority)

Rosewood, Siamese
(Dalbergia cochinchinensis)

Preventing Color Changes in Exotic Woods Nearly all wood tends to turn brown over time. Here’s what you can do to maintain color longer.

Restricted and Endangered Wood Species From CITES appendices to IUCN status, what you need to know about today’s wood situation.

Worldwide Woods, Ranked by Hardness Over 500 woods arranged into eight geographic regions and ranked by Janka hardness—all on one 24″ x 36″ poster.

Halo Woods (and Shady Naming Practices Well known woods can have their “brand recognition” stolen by unknown newcomers.

Are Rosewoods (and Bubinga) Really Banned by CITES? Learn why the world’s rosewood supplies seem to be disappearing faster than ever before.

Wood Allergies and Toxicity All wood dust poses a threat to our physical health, but some species are worse than others.

Gluing Oily Tropical Hardwoods What do you do when the wood you’re working with seems impervious to moisture?

Finishing Exotic and Tropical Hardwoods Some woods can turn the finishing process into a gummy mess. Here’s how to avoid common pitfalls.

Rosewood Rundown: Identifying Dalbergia and Other Rosewoods What is (and isn’t) a “true” rosewood, and how to tell them apart.

References[+]

References
↑1	Richter, H. G., Krause, V. J., & Muche, C. (1996). Dalbergia congestiflora Standl.: wood structure and physico-chemical properties compared with other Central American species of Dalbergia. Iawa Journal, 17(3), pg. 338.
↑2, ↑5	Barragán-Huerta, B. E., Peralta-Cruz, J., González-Laredo, R. F., & Karchesy, J. (2004). Neocandenatone, an isoflavan-cinnamylphenol quinone methide pigment from Dalbergia congestiflora. Phytochemistry, 65(7), 925-928.
↑3	Cai, S. C. S., Chong, T. Y. R., Goon, A. T. J., Leow, Y. H., & Cheng, S. W. N. (2024). Taking aim at the wood: Allergic contact dermatitis in a rifle shooting athlete. Contact Dermatitis, 90(4), 433-435.
↑4	Martínez-Sotres, C., López-Albarrán, P., Cruz-de-León, J., García-Moreno, T., Rutiaga-Quiñones, J. G., Vázquez-Marrufo, G., … & Herrera-Bucio, R. (2012). Medicarpin, an antifungal compound identified in hexane extract of Dalbergia congestiflora Pittier heartwood. International Biodeterioration & Biodegradation, 69, 38-40.
↑6	Saha, S., Shilpi, J. A., Mondal, H., Hossain, F., Anisuzzman, M., Hasan, M. M., & Cordell, G. A. (2013). Ethnomedicinal, phytochemical, and pharmacological profile of the genus Dalbergia L.(Fabaceae). Phytopharmacology, 4(2), 291-346.
↑7, ↑8	Richter, H. G., Krause, V. J., & Muche, C. (1996). Dalbergia congestiflora Standl.: wood structure and physico-chemical properties compared with other Central American species of Dalbergia. Iawa Journal, 17(3), pg. 328.
↑9	Richter, H. G., Krause, V. J., & Muche, C. (1996). Dalbergia congestiflora Standl.: wood structure and physico-chemical properties compared with other Central American species of Dalbergia. Iawa Journal, 17(3), pg. 331.

The post Camatillo appeared first on The Wood Database.

Hybrid Mahogany

Eric — Fri, 27 Jun 2025 06:54:23 +0000

> Hardwoods > Meliaceae > Swietenia > macrophylla × mahogani

DATA SOURCE(S): 62

Hybrid mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla × mahogani)

Common Name(s): Hybrid mahogany, caoba hibrido

Scientific Name: Swietenia macrophylla × mahogani, also sometimes written as Swietenia × aubrevilleana (see comments below)

Distribution: Costa Rica and other tropical regions of Central America

Tree Size: 100–130 ft (30–40 m) tall,
2–4 ft (.6–1.2 m) trunk diameter

Average Dried Weight:AVERAGE DRIED WEIGHT
Density is the measurement of a wood’s weight per unit volume. Here, "dried weight" specifically refers to wood at 12% moisture content, and values are given in pounds per cubic foot and kilograms per cubic meter. Also keep in mind that density commonly varies by +/- 10% from the average.

Click on the link "Average Dried Weight" for more details. 40.3 lbs/ft³ (645 kg/m³) Medium-Low WEIGHT TIERS
Extremely Low:     0+ kg/m³
Very Low:   420+ kg/m³
Low:   520+ kg/m³
Medium-Low:   620+ kg/m³
Medium:   730+ kg/m³
Medium-High:   840+ kg/m³
High:   960+ kg/m³
Very High: 1,080+ kg/m³
Extremely High: 1,200+ kg/m³
Tiers are based on CSIRO provisional strength groupings (SD1-SD8) based on density.

Janka Hardness:JANKA HARDNESS
This test measures a wood’s resistance to indentation, and is the pounds of force (or Newtons) required to embed a .444" (11.28 mm) diameter steel ball halfway into the wood. Values are for side grain, measured at 12% MC.

Click on the link "Janka Hardness" for more details. 1,180 lb_f (5,250 N)* Medium-Low JANKA HARDNESS TIERS
Extremely Low:      0+ N
Very Low:  2,050+ N
Low:  3,150+ N
Medium-Low:  4,480+ N
Medium:  6,280+ N
Medium-High:  8,380+ N
High: 11,080+ N
Very High: 14,000+ N
Extremely High: 17,450+ N
Tiers are derived from CSIRO provisional strength classifications (SD1-SD8) in conjunction with the USDA's estimated hardness based on density.
*estimated hardness based on specific gravity

† No strength or shrinkage data available; values are most likely very similar to the related Honduran mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla)

IUCN Status:
Not Evaluated

CITES Status:
Appendix II

Color/Appearance: Heartwood color can vary a fair amount, from a pale pinkish brown to a darker reddish brown. Color tends to darken with age. Mahogany also exhibits an optical phenomenon known as chatoyancy.

Grain/Texture: Grain can be straight, interlocked, irregular or wavy. Texture is medium and uniform, with moderate natural luster.

Rot Resistance: Varies from moderately durable to very durable depending on density and growing conditions of the tree. Heartwood is generally resistant to termites, but vulnerable to other insects.

Workability: Typically very easy to work with both hand and machine tools. (With exception to sections with figured or irregular grain, which can tearout or chip during machining.) Slight dulling of cutters can occur. Sands very easily. Turns, glues, stains, and finishes well.

Odor: No characteristic odor.

Allergies/Toxicity: Although severe reactions are quite uncommon, mahogany has been reported as a sensitizer. Usually most common reactions simply include eye, skin and respiratory irritation, as well as less common effects, such as boils, asthma-like symptoms, nausea, giddiness, and hypersensitivity pneumonitis. See the articles Wood Allergies and Toxicity and Wood Dust Safety for more information.

Pricing/Availability: Despite export restrictions, mahogany continues to be available in lumber or veneer form, ideally from plantations. (Though because of CITES restrictions, most US-based retailers are unable to ship the wood internationally.) Prices are in the mid range for an imported hardwood, though the wood tends to be more expensive than African mahogany (Khaya spp.). Figured or quartersawn lumber is also more expensive.

Sustainability: As a hybrid, these trees do not qualify to be evaluated by the IUCN for the Red List of Threatened Species. In general, plantation-growth lumber is considered a sustainable alternative to harvesting wild trees. However, under CITES’ policy for hybrids, hybrid mahogany would be protected and considered listed on Appendix II because one of its parents (in this case, both Swietenia macrophylla and S. mahogani) are listed on Appendix II.^[1]Conference of the Parties to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora. (2019). Regulation of trade in plants [Resolution Conf. 11.11 (Rev. CoP18)].

Common Uses: Furniture, cabinetry, turned objects, veneer, musical instruments, boatbuilding, and carving.

Comments: The term hybrid mahogany is used to describe a cross between the two commercial mahogany species: Honduran mahogany and Cuban mahogany. Although the hybrid formula Swietenia macrophylla × mahogani is clearly laid out and easy to understand, this syntax is only botanically correct when specifying the first generation hybrids between these two species. If such a hybrid further crosses back with one of its parent species, it can quickly become long and cumbersome, e.g., (Swietenia macrophylla × mahogani) × macrophylla. Hence, the collective name Swietenia × aubrevilleana is what’s technically and formally recognized because it still maintains the hybrid status (marked by the “×”) but denotes the entire spectrum of crosses between the two species. However, for the sake of clarity, the Wood Database defaults to the formula name for this hybrid—which also appears to be the preferred name by several authors, either incidentally^[2]Francis, J. K. (2002). Swietenia macrophylla x mahogani. In J. A. Vozzo (Ed.), Tropical tree seed manual (pp. 726–728). U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service. or intentionally.^[3]Little, E. L. (1960). Designating Hybrid Forest Trees. Taxon, 9(8), 225–231.^[4]Whitmore, J. L., & Hinojosa, G. (1977). Mahogany (Swietenia) hybrids (USDA Forest Service Research Paper ITF-24). U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Institute of Tropical Forestry.

There are three recognized Swietenia species—meaning there are technically two other possible hybrid combinations (both with the smaller S. humilis). Hybridization between S. humilis × macrophylla, as well as between S. humilis × mahongani is strongly suspected to occur (either in the wild, or between populations of cultivated trees).^[5]Styles, B. T. (1972). The flower biology of the Meliaceae and its bearing on tree breeding. Silvae Genetica, 21(5), 175–182. However, a 1977 report speaking of S. humilis × macrophylla found that “no controlled pollination has been attempted between these two species, and we can’t identify the male parent of field specimens.”^[6]Whitmore, J. L., & Hinojosa, G. (1977). Mahogany (Swietenia) hybrids (USDA Forest Service Research Paper ITF-24). U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Institute of Tropical Forestry. Thus, the only hybrid that’s currently certified is Swietenia macrophylla × mahogani.

Ultimately, the hybrid between Swietenia macrophylla and S. mahogani is said to be the best of both worlds: the strong growth rate of S. macrophylla with the slightly denser wood of S. mahogani.^[7]Styles, B. T. (1972). The flower biology of the Meliaceae and its bearing on tree breeding. Silvae Genetica, 21(5), 175–182.

Images: Drag the slider up/down to toggle between raw and finished wood.

A special thanks to Thrity Vakil for donating wood samples of hybrid mahogany.

Hybrid mahogany with flat sawn grain

Hybrid mahogany with quartersawn grain

Do you have images of projects made from this wood species? You can submit them to me here.

Identification: See the article on Hardwood Anatomy for definitions of end grain features.

Hybrid mahogany (end grain 10x)

Hybrid mahogany (end grain 1x)

Rays:RAYS
Describes the relative width and frequency of the rays (appearing as thin vertical lines on the endgrain), as well as a note on if these rays are visible with/without magnification.

Click on the link “Rays” for more details. medium width, normal spacing; most rays are generally not visible without magnification

Lookalikes/Substitutes: Khaya species (known commercially as African mahogany) are the closest in both appearance and anatomy. Swietenia species usually have marginal parenchyma bands, while Khaya species typically lack such bands. See the article Mahogany Mixups for more info.

Notes: Ripple marks present on flatsawn surfaces.

Hardwoods
(Wood Type)

Meliaceae
(Family)

Swietenia
(Genus)

× aubrevilleana
(Species)

Stehlé & Cusin
(Authority)

Rosewood, Siamese
(Dalbergia cochinchinensis)

WOOD! Identifying and Using Hundreds of Woods Worldwide All that makes The Wood Database unique, distilled into one potent book.

Restricted and Endangered Wood Species From CITES appendices to IUCN status, what you need to know about today’s wood situation.

Worldwide Woods, Ranked by Hardness Over 500 woods arranged into eight geographic regions and ranked by Janka hardness—all on one 24″ x 36″ poster.

Halo Woods (and Shady Naming Practices Well known woods can have their “brand recognition” stolen by unknown newcomers.

Periodic Table of Wood This wood species is included as one of 118 “elemental” woods on this nerdy poster.

National and State Trees Do you know which tree your state/country has selected to be its official emblem?

Wood Allergies and Toxicity All wood dust poses a threat to our physical health, but some species are worse than others.

Wood Filter Search, sort, and filter hundreds of woods from across the globe and break out of the ordinary!

References[+]

References
↑1	Conference of the Parties to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora. (2019). Regulation of trade in plants [Resolution Conf. 11.11 (Rev. CoP18)].
↑2	Francis, J. K. (2002). Swietenia macrophylla x mahogani. In J. A. Vozzo (Ed.), Tropical tree seed manual (pp. 726–728). U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service.
↑3	Little, E. L. (1960). Designating Hybrid Forest Trees. Taxon, 9(8), 225–231.
↑4, ↑6	Whitmore, J. L., & Hinojosa, G. (1977). Mahogany (Swietenia) hybrids (USDA Forest Service Research Paper ITF-24). U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Institute of Tropical Forestry.
↑5, ↑7	Styles, B. T. (1972). The flower biology of the Meliaceae and its bearing on tree breeding. Silvae Genetica, 21(5), 175–182.

The post Hybrid Mahogany appeared first on The Wood Database.

Coromandel Ebony

Eric — Mon, 18 Nov 2024 04:45:54 +0000

> Hardwoods > Ebenaceae > Diospyros > melanoxylon

DATA SOURCE(S): 12,24

Coromandel ebony (Diospyros melanoxylon)

Common Name(s): Coromandel ebony, tendu, kendu, East Indian ebony

Scientific Name: Diospyros melanoxylon

Distribution: Primarily India and Sri Lanka (the wood’s name comes from the Coromandel Coast in southeastern India)

Tree Size: 40-65 ft (12-20 m) tall,

1-2 ft (.3-.6 m) trunk diameter

Specific Gravity (Basic, 12% MC): .99, 1.24

Average Dried Weight: 77.7 lbs/ft³ (1,245 kg/m³)

Janka Hardness: 3,960 lb_f (17,600 N)*

*Estimated hardness based on specific gravity.

Modulus of Rupture: 36,250 lb_f/in² (250.0 MPa)†

Elastic Modulus: 2,610,000 lb_f/in² (18.00 GPa)†

Crushing Strength: 10,150 lb_f/in² (70.0 MPa)†

Shrinkage: Radial: 5.4%, Tangential: 8.8%,

Volumetric: 14.4%, T/R Ratio: 1.6 † Very High

†These strength/shrinkage values were taken from only one source,^[1]Gérard, J., Guibal, D., Paradis, S., & Cerre, J. C. (2017). Tropical timber atlas: technological characteristics and uses. éditions Quæ. p 129. which refers more broadly to “Asian black ebony” as a species grouping. The MOR value in particular seems abnormally high for ebony.

More images | Identification

Color/Appearance: Heartwood is a jet black, sometimes with reddish brown or purplish streaks. Sapwood is pale yellow to pink, and is clearly demarcated from the heartwood. Ironically, the very best quality ebony looks like black plastic.

Grain/Texture: Grain is typically straight or sometimes irregular, with a fine, uniform texture. Has a high level of natural luster.

Rot Resistance: Portions of black heartwood are very durable regarding decay resistance.

Workability: Overall difficult to work on account of its density and strong blunting effect on cutting edges. Can be difficult to dry, with checks or other drying defects developing. Can be difficult to glue, with one study^[2]Narayanamurti, D. (1957). Die Bedeutung der Holzextraktstoffe. Holz als Roh-und Werkstoff, 15(9), 370-380.^[3]Chunsi, K. S. (1973). The gluability of certain hardwoods from Burma (Doctoral dissertation, University of British Columbia). that mentioned the extractives of Diospyros melanoxylon causing weaker glue joints—even observing a transmission of this weakness to other species when treating them with extractives from this ebony. Ebony turns superbly, and takes a very high natural polish.

Odor: No characteristic odor.

Allergies/Toxicity: Although severe reactions are quite uncommon, ebony in the Diospyros genus has been reported as a sensitizer. Usually most common reactions simply include eye, skin, and respiratory irritation. See the articles Wood Allergies and Toxicity and Wood Dust Safety for more information.

Pricing/Availability: Although Coromandel ebony was one of the original ebonies of commerce (along with Diospyros ebenum), it’s seldom available today. Expect prices to be very high, and availability to be very scarce. Other ebonies such as Gaboon or Macassar are more commonly available, though both are also very expensive.

Sustainability: This wood species is not listed in the CITES Appendices, is currently not evaluated by the IUCN for inclusion on the Red List. This absence of any evaluation is notable, as Coromandel ebony was a historically exploited commercial species, and the IUCN has evaluated several hundred Diospyros species, including many other species that have been harvested and used for ebony. (Perhaps an evaluation is pending, as the closely related D. ebenum is listed as Data Deficient and has not been updated since 1998.)

Common Uses: Inlay, carving, musical instrument parts (piano keys, bridges, nuts, etc.), and turned objects.

Comments: Closely related to Ceylon ebony , both woods are also sometimes referred to as East Indian ebony or simply Indian ebony.
Not to be confused with African blackwood, whose scientific name (Dalbergia melanoxylon) is sometimes confused with Coromandel ebony (Diospyros melanoxylon).^[4]Both the 2010 and 2021 editions of the USDA’s Wood Handbook contain a typo in section 3-3 referring to African blackwood as Diospyros melanoxylon. Despite its jet-black heartwood, African blackwood (Dalbergia melanoxylon) is actually more correctly a rosewood than an ebony, though in practice it really is one of the best “ebony” species.
The Latin melanoxlyon comes from the Greek melano which means black, and xylon which means wood. Species names can be re-used in a lot of different genera. For instance, rubra means red, so you can have red oak (Quercus rubra) or red elm (Ulmus rubra)—both use the same rubra species name but are in unrelated genera.

Images: Drag the slider up/down to toggle between raw and finished wood.

A special thanks to Steve Earis for providing the wood sample (veneer) of this wood species.

Do you have images of projects made from this wood species? You can submit them to me here.

Identification: See the article on Hardwood Anatomy for definitions of endgrain features.

Porosity: diffuse porous; growth rings sometimes subtly discernible due to decrease in pore frequency in latewood

Arrangement: solitary and radial multiples

Vessels: medium to large, few to moderately numerous

Parenchyma: diffuse-in-aggregates

Rays: narrow to medium width, normal spacing; rays are just barely visible without magnification

Lookalikes/Substitutes: None.

Notes: None.

> Hardwoods > Ebenaceae > Diospyros > Related Species

Rosewood, Siamese
(Dalbergia cochinchinensis)

Ebony: Dark Outlook for Dark Woods?Learn what makes dark woods like ebony so expensive, as well as future availability, and possible substitutes.

Gluing Oily Tropical Hardwoods What do you do when the wood you’re working with seems impervious to moisture?

WOOD! Identifying and Using Hundreds of Woods Worldwide All that makes The Wood Database unique, distilled into one potent book.

Wood Filter Search, sort, and filter hundreds of woods from across the globe and break out of the ordinary!

Worldwide Woods, Ranked by Hardness Over 500 woods arranged into eight geographic regions and ranked by Janka hardness—all on one 24″ x 36″ poster.

References[+]

References
↑1	Gérard, J., Guibal, D., Paradis, S., & Cerre, J. C. (2017). Tropical timber atlas: technological characteristics and uses. éditions Quæ. p 129.
↑2	Narayanamurti, D. (1957). Die Bedeutung der Holzextraktstoffe. Holz als Roh-und Werkstoff, 15(9), 370-380.
↑3	Chunsi, K. S. (1973). The gluability of certain hardwoods from Burma (Doctoral dissertation, University of British Columbia).
↑4	Both the 2010 and 2021 editions of the USDA’s Wood Handbook contain a typo in section 3-3 referring to African blackwood as Diospyros melanoxylon.

The post Coromandel Ebony appeared first on The Wood Database.

Yellow Lapacho

Eric — Mon, 11 Nov 2024 13:18:25 +0000

> Hardwoods > Bignoniaceae > Handroanthus > ochraceus

DATA SOURCE(S): 39

Yellow lapacho (Handroanthus ochraceus)

Common Name(s): Yellow lapacho, ipe amarelo, yellow trumpet tree, corteza amarilla

Scientific Name: Handroanthus ochraceus, still commonly listed under the older synonym Tabebuia ochracea

Distribution: Mexico, south to Central and South America

Tree Size: 50-80 ft (15-24 m) tall,

1-2 ft (.3-.6 m) trunk diameter

Average Dried Weight: 68.7 lbs/ft³ (1,100 kg/m³) Very High

Specific Gravity (Basic, 12% MC): .91, 1.10

Janka Hardness: 2,590 lb_f (11,500 N)High

Modulus of Rupture: 23,580 lb_f/in² (162.6 MPa) Extremely High

Elastic Modulus: 2,252,000 lb_f/in² (15.53 GPa) Medium-High

Crushing Strength: 12,250 lb_f/in² (84.5 MPa)

Shrinkage: Radial: 4.0%, Tangential: 5.5%,

Volumetric: 10.6%, T/R Ratio: 1.4

More images | Identification

Color/Appearance: Heartwood tends to be medium to dark brown; sometimes with contrasting darker brown/black stripes. Yellow lapacho’s name derives from the color of its flowers, not the color of its heartwood. Overall appearance can be very similar to cumaru (Dipteryx odorata).

Grain/Texture: Has a fine to medium texture, with the grain varying from straight to irregular or interlocked. Moderate natural luster.

Rot Resistance: Rated as very durable; with excellent insect resistance.

Workability: Overall, yellow lapacho is a difficult wood to work, being extremely hard and dense, with high cutting resistance during sawing. It also has a pronounced blunting effect on cutting edges. The wood generally planes smoothly, but the grain can tearout on interlocked areas. Also, yellow lapacho can be difficult to glue properly, and surface preparation prior to gluing is recommended. Straight-grained wood turns well, though the natural powdery yellow deposits (called lapachol) can sometimes interfere with polishing or finishing the wood.

Odor: Yellow lapacho has a mild scent while being worked.

Allergies/Toxicity: Many Handroanthus species contain lapachol (and related substances like lapachenole and deoxylapachol), which have been observed to produce pronounced irritant responses on skin.^[1]Schulz, K. H., Garbe, I., Hausen, B. M., & Simatupang, M. H. (1977). The sensitizing capacity of naturally occurring quinones. Experimental studies in guinea pigs. I. Naphthoquinones and related … Continue reading Although severe reactions are quite uncommon, Handroanthus species have been reported to cause skin, eye, and respiratory irritation, as well as other effects such as headaches, asthma-like symptoms,^[2]Algranti, E., Mendonça, E. M., Ali, S. A., Kokron, C. M., & Raile, V. (2005). Occupational asthma caused by Ipe (Tabebuia spp) dust. Journal of investigational allergology & clinical … Continue reading and/or disturbance of vision. See the articles Wood Allergies and Toxicity and Wood Dust Safety for more information.

Pricing/Availability: Primarily sold as decking or flooring, individual boards for furniture or general use are sometimes available as well. Prices are in the medium range for an imported tropical species. Though with ipe’s 2024 listing in the CITES Appendix II, availability is expected to steadily diminish, and prices to increase.

Sustainability: Yellow lapacho is listed in the CITES Appendix II under a blanket restriction spanning multiple genera (including Handroanthus, Tabebuia, and Roseodendron). However, Handroanthus ochraceus in particular is reported by the IUCN as being a species of least concern.
But aside from the immediacy of any threats to Handroanthus, these tree species tend to grow in very low densities, with mature trees only occurring once per 300,000 to 1,000,000 square feet (3 to 10 hectares) of forest area. This necessitates the clearing of large sections of rainforest trees, most of which, after factoring in the cost of transportation, have little to no commercial value.^[3]Hutton, J. (2013). A Trail of Stumps. Landscape Architecture Magazine, 103(5), 117-126.

Common Uses: Flooring, decking, exterior lumber, veneer, tool handles, and other turned objects.

Comments: Yellow lapacho (Handroanthus ochraceus) is sometimes harvested and sold along with the more common species like H. serratifolius and H. impetiginosus under the generic commercial name ipe, though the lumber is usually referred to by the halo name ‘Brazilian walnut’ among flooring dealers—but it’s not related to true walnut in the Juglans genus.
Formerly placed in the Tabebuia genus, species of ipe (H. guayacan, H. impetiginosus, H. serratifolius) were moved to the Handroanthus genus in 2007 based on genetic studies.^[4]Grose, S. O., & Olmstead, R. G. (2007). Evolution of a charismatic neotropical clade: Molecular phylogeny of Tabebuia sl, Crescentieae, and allied genera (Bignoniaceae). Systematic … Continue reading
While Brazil exports the majority of commercial ipe, other regions also have Handroanthus species yielding similar lumber, though they are less commonly exported. When used locally, Handroanthus and Tabebuia trees are very highly regarded (several are included as national trees in their native habitat, including the nations of Paraguay, Venezula, and El Salvador). In this context, they are usually distinguished by the color of their very dramatic and widespread trumpet-like flowers, and are sometimes referred to as trumpet trees. Common flower colors include yellow (H. serratifolius and H. guayacan) and pink (H. impetiginosus and H. heptaphyllus).

Images: Drag the slider up/down to toggle between raw and finished wood.

This sample was originally labeled as Tabebuia heterotricha, later shown to be a subspecies of yellow lapacho (Handroanthus ochraceus ssp. heterotrichus).

Do you have images of projects made from this wood species? You can submit them to me here.

Identification: See the article on Hardwood Anatomy for definitions of endgrain features.

Yellow lapacho (endgrain 10x)

Yellow lapacho (endgrain 1x)

Porosity: diffuse porous; growth rings not visible

Arrangement: solitary and radial multiples

Vessels: medium to large, few to moderately numerous; tyloses and other colored mineral deposits common

Parenchyma: visible parenchyma is usually minimal, but can be unilateral, winged, and marginal

Rays: narrow, normal spacing; rays not visible without magnification

Lookalikes/Substitutes: Cumaru (Dipteryx odorata), is another dense South American timber with very similar appearance and anatomy. However, cumaru tends to be slightly lighter in color, and has a characteristic vanilla/cinnamon scent while being worked (in contrast, ipe tends to have a more resinous odor).

Notes: None.

> Hardwoods > Bignoniaceae > Handroanthus > Related Species

Rosewood, Siamese
(Dalbergia cochinchinensis)

WOOD! Identifying and Using Hundreds of Woods Worldwide All that makes The Wood Database unique, distilled into one potent book.

Restricted and Endangered Wood Species From CITES appendices to IUCN status, what you need to know about today’s wood situation.

Worldwide Woods, Ranked by Hardness Over 500 woods arranged into eight geographic regions and ranked by Janka hardness—all on one 24″ x 36″ poster.

Halo Woods (and Shady Naming Practices) Well known woods can have their “brand recognition” stolen by unknown newcomers.

Ebony: Dark Outlook for Dark Woods?Learn what makes dark woods like ebony so expensive, as well as future availability, and possible substitutes.

Gluing Oily Tropical Hardwoods What do you do when the wood you’re working with seems impervious to moisture?

Preventing Color Changes in Exotic Woods Nearly all wood tends to turn brown over time. Here’s what you can do to maintain color longer.

Wood Filter Search, sort, and filter hundreds of woods from across the globe and break out of the ordinary!

National and State Trees Do you know which tree your state/country has selected to be its official emblem?

References[+]

References
↑1	Schulz, K. H., Garbe, I., Hausen, B. M., & Simatupang, M. H. (1977). The sensitizing capacity of naturally occurring quinones. Experimental studies in guinea pigs. I. Naphthoquinones and related compounds. Archiv fur dermatologische Forschung, 258(1), 41–52.
↑2	Algranti, E., Mendonça, E. M., Ali, S. A., Kokron, C. M., & Raile, V. (2005). Occupational asthma caused by Ipe (Tabebuia spp) dust. Journal of investigational allergology & clinical immunology, 15(1), 81–83.
↑3	Hutton, J. (2013). A Trail of Stumps. Landscape Architecture Magazine, 103(5), 117-126.
↑4	Grose, S. O., & Olmstead, R. G. (2007). Evolution of a charismatic neotropical clade: Molecular phylogeny of Tabebuia sl, Crescentieae, and allied genera (Bignoniaceae). Systematic Botany, 32(3), 650-659.

The post Yellow Lapacho appeared first on The Wood Database.

Pink Lapacho

Eric — Thu, 31 Oct 2024 12:26:23 +0000

> Hardwoods > Bignoniaceae > Handroanthus > impetiginosus

DATA SOURCE(S): 20,28,30,39

Pink lapacho (Handroanthus impetiginosa)

Common Name(s): Pink lapacho, ipe, pink trumpet tree

Scientific Name: Handroanthus impetiginosus, formerly in the Tabebuia genus as Tabebuia impetiginosa; T. palmeri is another common synonym of this species

Distribution: Mexico, south to Central and South America

Tree Size: 65-100 ft (20-30 m) tall,

1-2 ft (.3-.6 m) trunk diameter

Average Dried Weight: 59.9 lbs/ft³ (960 kg/m³)

Specific Gravity (Basic, 12% MC): .89, .96

Janka Hardness: 2,660 lb_f (11,850 N)

Modulus of Rupture: 23,210 lb_f/in² (160.1 MPa)

Elastic Modulus: 2,773,000 lb_f/in² (19.13 GPa)

Crushing Strength: 10,600 lb_f/in² (73.1 MPa)

Shrinkage: Radial: 4.3%, Tangential: 7.2%,

Volumetric: 11.6%, T/R Ratio: 1.7

More images | Identification

Color/Appearance: Heartwood tends to be medium to dark brown; sometimes with contrasting darker brown/black stripes. Pink lapacho’s name derives from the color of its flowers, not the color of its heartwood. Overall appearance can be very similar to cumaru (Dipteryx odorata).

Grain/Texture: Has a fine to medium texture, with the grain varying from straight to irregular or interlocked. Moderate natural luster.

Rot Resistance: Rated as very durable; with excellent insect resistance.

Workability: Overall, pink lapacho is a difficult wood to work, being extremely hard and dense, with high cutting resistance during sawing. It also has a pronounced blunting effect on cutting edges. The wood generally planes smoothly, but the grain can tearout on interlocked areas. Also, pink lapacho can be difficult to glue properly, and surface preparation prior to gluing is recommended. Straight-grained wood turns well, though the natural powdery yellow deposits (called lapachol) can sometimes interfere with polishing or finishing the wood.

Odor: Pink lapacho has a mild scent while being worked.

Allergies/Toxicity: Many Handroanthus species contain lapachol (and related substances like lapachenole and deoxylapachol), which have been observed to produce pronounced irritant responses on skin.^[1]Schulz, K. H., Garbe, I., Hausen, B. M., & Simatupang, M. H. (1977). The sensitizing capacity of naturally occurring quinones. Experimental studies in guinea pigs. I. Naphthoquinones and related … Continue reading Although severe reactions are quite uncommon, Handroanthus species have been reported to cause skin, eye, and respiratory irritation, as well as other effects such as headaches, asthma-like symptoms,^[2]Algranti, E., Mendonça, E. M., Ali, S. A., Kokron, C. M., & Raile, V. (2005). Occupational asthma caused by Ipe (Tabebuia spp) dust. Journal of investigational allergology & clinical … Continue reading and/or disturbance of vision. See the articles Wood Allergies and Toxicity and Wood Dust Safety for more information.

Pricing/Availability: Primarily sold as decking or flooring, individual boards for furniture or general use are sometimes available as well. Prices are in the medium range for an imported tropical species. Though with ipe’s 2024 listing in the CITES Appendix II, availability is expected to steadily diminish, and prices to increase.

Sustainability: Pink lapacho is listed in the CITES Appendix II under a blanket restriction spanning multiple genera (including Handroanthus, Tabebuia, and Roseodendron). Handroanthus impetiginosus is also reported by the IUCN as being near threatened. Technically it doesn’t meet the Red List criteria of a vulnerable or endangered species, but is close to qualifying and/or may qualify in the near future.
But aside from the immediacy of any threats to Handroanthus, these tree species tend to grow in very low densities, with mature trees only occurring once per 300,000 to 1,000,000 square feet (3 to 10 hectares) of forest area. This necessitates the clearing of large sections of rainforest trees, most of which, after factoring in the cost of transportation, have little to no commercial value.^[3]Hutton, J. (2013). A Trail of Stumps. Landscape Architecture Magazine, 103(5), 117-126.

Common Uses: Flooring, decking, exterior lumber, veneer, tool handles, and other turned objects.

Comments: Pink lapacho (Handroanthus impetiginosus) is harvested and sold interchangeably with H. serratifolius under the generic commercial name ipe, though the lumber is usually referred to by the halo name ‘Brazilian walnut’ among flooring dealers—but it’s not related to true walnut in the Juglans genus. When compared to the more widely harvested H. serratifolius, the wood of H. impetiginosus tends to be slightly lighter in weight, and accordingly slightly weaker, on average, in nearly all mechanical measurements.
Formerly placed in the Tabebuia genus, species of ipe (H. guayacan, H. impetiginosus, H. serratifolius) were moved to the Handroanthus genus in 2007 based on genetic studies.^[4]Grose, S. O., & Olmstead, R. G. (2007). Evolution of a charismatic neotropical clade: Molecular phylogeny of Tabebuia sl, Crescentieae, and allied genera (Bignoniaceae). Systematic … Continue reading
While Brazil exports the majority of commercial ipe, other regions also have Handroanthus species yielding similar lumber, though they are less commonly exported. When used locally, Handroanthus and Tabebuia trees are very highly regarded (several are included as national trees in their native habitat, including the nations of Paraguay, Venezula, and El Salvador). In this context, they are usually distinguished by the color of their very dramatic and widespread trumpet-like flowers, and are sometimes referred to as trumpet trees. Common flower colors include yellow (H. serratifolius and H. guayacan) and pink (H. impetiginosus and H. heptaphyllus).

Images: Drag the slider up/down to toggle between raw and finished wood.

The first sample is Handroanthus impetiginosus, while the second sample (with sapwood) was originally labeled as Tabebuia palmeri—later classified as a synonym of H. impetiginosus.

Do you have images of projects made from this wood species? You can submit them to me here.

Identification: See the article on Hardwood Anatomy for definitions of endgrain features.

Pink lapacho (endgrain 10x)

Pink lapacho (endgrain 1x)

Tabebuia palmeri (endgrain 10x)

Tabebuia palmeri (endgrain 1x)

Porosity: diffuse porous; growth rings not visible

Arrangement: solitary and radial multiples

Vessels: medium to large, few to moderately numerous; tyloses and other colored mineral deposits common

Parenchyma: visible parenchyma is usually minimal, but can be unilateral, winged, and marginal

Rays: narrow, normal spacing; rays not visible without magnification

Notes: None.

> Hardwoods > Bignoniaceae > Handroanthus > Related Species

Rosewood, Siamese
(Dalbergia cochinchinensis)

WOOD! Identifying and Using Hundreds of Woods Worldwide All that makes The Wood Database unique, distilled into one potent book.

Restricted and Endangered Wood Species From CITES appendices to IUCN status, what you need to know about today’s wood situation.

Worldwide Woods, Ranked by Hardness Over 500 woods arranged into eight geographic regions and ranked by Janka hardness—all on one 24″ x 36″ poster.

Halo Woods (and Shady Naming Practices) Well known woods can have their “brand recognition” stolen by unknown newcomers.

Ebony: Dark Outlook for Dark Woods?Learn what makes dark woods like ebony so expensive, as well as future availability, and possible substitutes.

Gluing Oily Tropical Hardwoods What do you do when the wood you’re working with seems impervious to moisture?

Preventing Color Changes in Exotic Woods Nearly all wood tends to turn brown over time. Here’s what you can do to maintain color longer.

Wood Filter Search, sort, and filter hundreds of woods from across the globe and break out of the ordinary!

National and State Trees Do you know which tree your state/country has selected to be its official emblem?

References[+]

References
↑1	Schulz, K. H., Garbe, I., Hausen, B. M., & Simatupang, M. H. (1977). The sensitizing capacity of naturally occurring quinones. Experimental studies in guinea pigs. I. Naphthoquinones and related compounds. Archiv fur dermatologische Forschung, 258(1), 41–52.
↑2	Algranti, E., Mendonça, E. M., Ali, S. A., Kokron, C. M., & Raile, V. (2005). Occupational asthma caused by Ipe (Tabebuia spp) dust. Journal of investigational allergology & clinical immunology, 15(1), 81–83.
↑3	Hutton, J. (2013). A Trail of Stumps. Landscape Architecture Magazine, 103(5), 117-126.
↑4	Grose, S. O., & Olmstead, R. G. (2007). Evolution of a charismatic neotropical clade: Molecular phylogeny of Tabebuia sl, Crescentieae, and allied genera (Bignoniaceae). Systematic Botany, 32(3), 650-659.

The post Pink Lapacho appeared first on The Wood Database.

Soto

Eric — Wed, 02 Oct 2024 18:38:25 +0000

> Hardwoods > Anacardiaceae > Schinopsis > brasiliensis

DATA SOURCE(S): 27,36

Quebracho (Schinopsis lorentzii)

Common Name(s): Soto, barauna, quebracho colorado

Scientific Name: Schinopsis brasiliensis

Distribution: South America (primarily Brazil, Bolivia, and Paraguay)

Tree Size: 40-50 ft (12-15 m) tall,

1-2 ft (.3-.6 m) trunk diameter

Average Dried Weight: 79.9 lbs/ft³ (1,280 kg/m³)

Specific Gravity (Basic, 12% MC): 1.14, 1.28

Janka Hardness: 3,650 lb_f (16,240 N)

Modulus of Rupture: 21,560 lb_f/in² (148.7 MPa)

Elastic Modulus: 2,276,000 lb_f/in² (15.69 GPa)

Crushing Strength: 11,850 lb_f/in² (81.7 MPa)

Shrinkage: Radial: 5.3%, Tangential: 10.3%,

Volumetric: 16.3%, T/R Ratio: 1.9

More images | Identification

Color/Appearance: Heartwood color typically a light to medium reddish brown, sometimes with darker blackish streaks. Color darkens upon prolonged exposure to light. Pale yellow sapwood distinct from heartwood, though transition is gradual. Can have moderate ribbon figure on quartersawn surfaces due to interlocked/roey grain. Overall appearance can resemble genuine mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla).

Grain/Texture: Quebracho has a fine, uniform texture with a high natural luster. Grain tends to be irregular, roey, and interlocked.

Rot Resistance: Quebracho is rated as very durable, and is also resistant to insect attacks. Quebracho also has good weathering characteristics.

Workability: Difficult to work on account of its density and irregular grain. High cutting resistance, as well as pronounced blunting effect on cutters. Dries slowly—and tends to crack, check, and warp while drying. Turns and finishes well, and also able to take on a high natural polish without any finishing agents.

Odor: There is no characteristic odor associated with this wood species, though it is reported to have a bitter taste.

Allergies/Toxicity: Although severe reactions are quite uncommon, quebracho has been reported as a sensitizer. Usually most common reactions include skin and respiratory irritation, as well as nausea. See the articles Wood Allergies and Toxicity and Wood Dust Safety for more information.

Pricing/Availability: Very seldom available in North America, quebracho is much more commonly harvested and processed for its natural tanins, or minimally-processed and used locally in heavy construction. Small log sections, craft blanks, or sawn lumber can sometimes be found on a limited basis. Expect prices to be in the medium to high range for an imported hardwood.

Sustainability: Quebracho is not listed in the CITES Appendices, and the IUCN reports that Schinopsis brasiliensis is a species of least concern. However, this IUCN evaluation dates back to 1998 and is in need of updating.

Common Uses: Due its difficult workability, quebracho tends to be minimally processed. Local uses include heavy construction timbers, railroad cross-ties, and fence posts. When exported, uses include furniture, carvings, and turned objects.

Comments: Unlike the other two primary commercial Schinopsis species yielding quebracho wood (S. balansae and S. lorentzii), soto primarily occurs in Brazil, hence its specific epithet: brasiliensis. Accordingly, many of its common names are Portuguese rather than Spanish.
In comparing this Brazilian species to the other two commercial species, Record and Hess comment that “The wood is practically identical in appearance and structure with the Quebracho of Argentina.”^[1]Record and Hess. Timbers of the New World. p. 48

Images: Drag the slider up/down to toggle between raw and finished wood.

A special thanks to John Volcko for providing the turned photo of this wood species.

Quebracho and African blackwood (turned)

Identification: See the article on Hardwood Anatomy for definitions of endgrain features.

Quebracho (endgrain 10x)

Quebracho (endgrain 1x)

Porosity: diffuse porous; growth rings generally not visible, though occasionally discernible due to subtle change in color of woof fibers around the annual growth ring boundaries

Arrangement: solitary and radial multiples

Vessels: medium to large, few to moderately numerous; tyloses common

Parenchyma: vasicentric and unilateral

Rays: narrow width, normal spacing; rays generally not visible without magnification

Lookalikes/Substitutes: Superficially, quebracho has an overall appearance that’s similar to various types of mahogany. However, quebracho’s very high density should serve to separate it from nearly all lookalikes.

Notes: Heartwood fluoresces a yellowish green under a blacklight.

> Hardwoods > Anacardiaceae > Schinopsis > Related Species

Rosewood, Siamese
(Dalbergia cochinchinensis)

WOOD! Identifying and Using Hundreds of Woods Worldwide All that makes The Wood Database unique, distilled into one potent book.

Finishing Exotic and Tropical Hardwoods Some woods can turn the finishing process into a gummy mess. Here’s how to avoid common pitfalls.

Worldwide Woods, Ranked by Hardness Over 500 woods arranged into eight geographic regions and ranked by Janka hardness—all on one 24″ x 36″ poster.

Wood Filter Search, sort, and filter hundreds of woods from across the globe and break out of the ordinary!

Restricted and Endangered Wood Species From CITES appendices to IUCN status, what you need to know about today’s wood situation.

References[+]

References
↑1	Record and Hess. Timbers of the New World. p. 48

The post Soto appeared first on The Wood Database.

Willow-Leaf Red Quebracho

Eric — Wed, 02 Oct 2024 18:00:09 +0000

> Hardwoods > Anacardiaceae > Schinopsis > balansae

DATA SOURCE(S): 8,27,30,36,39,43

Willow-leaf red quebracho (Schinopsis balansae)

Common Name(s): Willow-leaf red quebracho, quebracho colorado chaqueno, red quebracho

Scientific Name: Schinopsis balansae

Distribution: South America (primarily Argentina, Paraguay, and Central-West Brazil)

Tree Size: 40-80 ft (12-24 m) tall,

2-4 ft (.6-1.2 m) trunk diameter

Average Dried Weight: 75.5 lbs/ft³ (1,210 kg/m³)

Specific Gravity (Basic, 12% MC): 1.05, 1.21

Janka Hardness: 3,450 lb_f (15,340 N)*

*see special comments below

Modulus of Rupture: 18,340 lb_f/in² (126.5 MPa)

Elastic Modulus: 2,192,000 lb_f/in² (15.12 GPa)

Crushing Strength: 12,090 lb_f/in² (83.4 MPa)

Shrinkage: Radial: 4.9%, Tangential: 8.0%,

Volumetric: 12.2%, T/R Ratio: 1.6

More images | Identification

Color/Appearance: Heartwood color typically a light to medium reddish brown, sometimes with darker blackish streaks. Color darkens upon prolonged exposure to light. Pale yellow sapwood distinct from heartwood, though transition is gradual. Can have moderate ribbon figure on quartersawn surfaces due to interlocked/roey grain. Overall appearance can resemble genuine mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla).

Grain/Texture: Quebracho has a fine, uniform texture with a high natural luster. Grain tends to be irregular, roey, and interlocked.

Rot Resistance: Quebracho is rated as very durable, and is also resistant to insect attacks. Quebracho also has good weathering characteristics.

Workability: Difficult to work on account of its density and irregular grain. High cutting resistance, as well as pronounced blunting effect on cutters. Dries slowly—and tends to crack, check, and warp while drying. Turns and finishes well, and also able to take on a high natural polish without any finishing agents.

Odor: There is no characteristic odor associated with this wood species, though it is reported to have a bitter taste.

Allergies/Toxicity: Although severe reactions are quite uncommon, quebracho has been reported as a sensitizer. Usually most common reactions include skin and respiratory irritation, as well as nausea. See the articles Wood Allergies and Toxicity and Wood Dust Safety for more information.

Pricing/Availability: Very seldom available in North America, quebracho is much more commonly harvested and processed for its natural tanins, or minimally-processed and used locally in heavy construction. Small log sections, craft blanks, or sawn lumber can sometimes be found on a limited basis. Expect prices to be in the medium to high range for an imported hardwood.

Sustainability: Quebracho is not listed in the CITES Appendices, and the IUCN reports that Schinopsis balansae is a species of least concern. However, this IUCN evaluation dates back to 1998 and is in need of updating.

Common Uses: Due to its difficult workability, quebracho tends to be minimally processed. Local uses include heavy construction timbers, railroad cross-ties, and fence posts. When exported, uses include furniture, carvings, and turned objects.

Comments: The name quebracho is from the Spanish quebrar hacha, which literally means ‘axe breaker.’ Aptly named, wood in the Schinopsis genus is among the heaviest and hardest in the world. The added descriptor colorado, Spanish for ‘red,’ is sometimes added to the name to help distinguish it from an unrelated species, Aspidosperma quebracho-blanco, which goes by the common name quebracho blanco (white quebracho).
Quebracho was heavily exploited in the late 1800s for use in leather tanning. The tanin-rich heartwood (up to 20-30%) is cut into small chips, where the tanins can subsequently be extracted.^[1]Record and Hess. Timbers of the New World. p. 48
In addition to Schinopsis balansae (represented on this page), there is another very similar species that is also sold and harvested as red quebracho: S. lorentzii. According to Record and Hess, Schinopsis lorentzii is “more abundant in the drier western plains and is sometimes referred to as the Santiago type (quebracho colorado santiagueno),” while the closely related S. balansae, also harvested and sold as quebracho, “extends into the swampy lands fringing the Parana and Paraguay rivers, is known as the Santa Fe or Chaco type (quebracho colorado chaqueno).”^[2]Record and Hess. Timbers of the New World. p. 48
Special comment on quebracho Janka hardness: This wood previously had a very high Janka hardness value listed, formerly 4,570 lb_f (20,340 N), and for several years it also topped the list of hardest woods on the Wood Database. However, a recent discovery of an additional source^[3]Martinuzzi, F. (2010.) Fichas Técnicas de Maderas. INTI Madera y muebles. has forced me to recalculate this value. By default, I calculate each of the mechanical values as an average value drawing from all credible/original sources. But for this particular data source, I had ignored the reported values for many years because (i) the authors didn’t list the units of measurement used for Janka hardness, (ii) the values cited did not closely match any known units of measurement for Janka hardness, and (iii) the authors did not respond to my email inquiry. The recent breakthrough finally came when I compared the Janka hardness values of other tree species from this source with their known values from other sources. I could then see that the values corresponded perfectly to decanewtons (daN)—this is a very uncommon unit (Newtons (N) or kilonewtons (kN) are much more common), and it’s the only instance I’m aware of where decanewtons have been used for Janka hardness. However, taken as a whole, the actual data from this source tends to be quite reliable, including the Janka hardness of many other species, so I thought it fit to incorporate the Janka hardness values for this source into the average calculation. This had the effect of bringing the average value down significantly—both for Schinopsis balansae and S. lorentzii.

Images: Drag the slider up/down to toggle between raw and finished wood.

A special thanks to John Volcko for providing the turned photo of this wood species.

Quebracho and African blackwood (turned)

Identification: See the article on Hardwood Anatomy for definitions of endgrain features.

Willow-leaf red quebracho (endgrain 10x)

Willow-leaf red quebracho (endgrain 1x)

Porosity: diffuse porous; growth rings generally not visible, though occasionally discernible due to subtle change in color of woof fibers around the annual growth ring boundaries

Arrangement: solitary and radial multiples

Vessels: medium to large, few to moderately numerous; tyloses common

Parenchyma: vasicentric and unilateral

Rays: narrow width, normal spacing; rays generally not visible without magnification

Notes: Heartwood fluoresces a yellowish green under a blacklight.

> Hardwoods > Anacardiaceae > Schinopsis > Related Species

Rosewood, Siamese
(Dalbergia cochinchinensis)

WOOD! Identifying and Using Hundreds of Woods Worldwide All that makes The Wood Database unique, distilled into one potent book.

Finishing Exotic and Tropical Hardwoods Some woods can turn the finishing process into a gummy mess. Here’s how to avoid common pitfalls.

Worldwide Woods, Ranked by Hardness Over 500 woods arranged into eight geographic regions and ranked by Janka hardness—all on one 24″ x 36″ poster.

Wood Filter Search, sort, and filter hundreds of woods from across the globe and break out of the ordinary!

Restricted and Endangered Wood Species From CITES appendices to IUCN status, what you need to know about today’s wood situation.

References[+]

References
↑1, ↑2	Record and Hess. Timbers of the New World. p. 48
↑3	Martinuzzi, F. (2010.) Fichas Técnicas de Maderas. INTI Madera y muebles.

The post Willow-Leaf Red Quebracho appeared first on The Wood Database.

Bomanga

Eric — Tue, 30 Jul 2024 11:19:05 +0000

> Hardwoods > Fabaceae > Brachystegia > laurentii

DATA SOURCE(S): 6,8,14,36,43

Bomanga (Brachystegia laurentii)

Common Name(s): Bomanga

Scientific Name: Brachystegia laurentii, (syn. B. zenkeri)

Distribution: Central Africa

Tree Size: 100-130 ft (30-40 m) tall,

3-5 ft (1-1.5 m) trunk diameter

Average Dried Weight: 35.5 lbs/ft³ (570 kg/m³)

Specific Gravity (Basic, 12% MC): .50, .57

Janka Hardness: 1,140 lb_f (5,060 N)

Modulus of Rupture: 12,550 lb_f/in² (86.6 MPa)

Elastic Modulus: 1,768,000 lb_f/in² (12.19 GPa)

Crushing Strength: 6,990 lb_f/in² (48.2 MPa)

Shrinkage: Radial: 3.7%, Tangential: 6.0%,

Volumetric: 9.9%, T/R Ratio: 1.6

More images | Identification

Color/Appearance: Heartwood ranges from light golden brown to dark reddish brown.

Grain/Texture: Fine texture and a straight or slightly interlocked grain.

Rot Resistance: Rated as moderately durable to non-durable; poor resistance to decay and insect attack.

Workability: Easy to work with both hand and machine tools. Turns, glues, and finishes well.

Odor: No characteristic odor.

Allergies/Toxicity: Besides the standard health risks associated with any type of wood dust, no further health reactions have been associated with bomanga. See the articles Wood Allergies and Toxicity and Wood Dust Safety for more information.

Pricing/Availability: Seldom available in North America. Prices should be moderate when compared to other imported lumber.

Sustainability: This wood species is not listed in the CITES Appendices, and is reported by the IUCN as being a species of least concern.

Common Uses: A general-purpose lumber used for furniture, interior millwork, plywood, and flooring.

Comments: None.

Images: Drag the slider up/down to toggle between raw and finished wood.

Preventing Color Changes in Exotic Woods Nearly all wood tends to turn brown over time. Here’s what you can do to maintain color longer.

Do you have images of projects made from this wood species? You can submit them to me here.

Identification: See the article on Hardwood Anatomy for definitions of endgrain features.

Bomanga (endgrain 10x)

Bomanga (endgrain 1x)

Porosity: diffuse porous; growth rings sometimes discernible due marginal parenchyma

Arrangement: solitary and radial multiples

Vessels: large to very large, very few

Parenchyma: lozenge, confluent, and banded (marginal)

Rays: narrow width, normal to close spacing; rays not visible without magnification

Lookalikes/Substitutes: None.

Notes: None.

> Hardwoods > Fabaceae > Brachystegia > Related Species

Fluorescence: A Secret Weapon in Wood Identification All it takes is a simple blacklight to detect a fluorescent response in hardwoods.

Machinability of Domestic Hardwoods A total of 27 different US hardwoods, ranked by their ease of working with machine tools.

Worldwide Woods, Ranked by Hardness Over 500 woods arranged into eight geographic regions and ranked by Janka hardness—all on one 24″ x 36″ poster.

Periodic Table of Wood This wood species is included as one of 118 “elemental” woods on this nerdy poster.

Wood Filter Search, sort, and filter hundreds of woods from across the globe and break out of the ordinary!

WOOD! Identifying and Using Hundreds of Woods Worldwide All that makes The Wood Database unique, distilled into one potent book.

The post Bomanga appeared first on The Wood Database.

Dawn Redwood

Eric — Thu, 06 Jun 2024 09:58:49 +0000

> Softwoods > Cupressaceae > Metasequoia > glyptostroboides

DATA SOURCE(S): 52

Dawn redwood (Metasequoia glyptostroboides)

Common Name(s): Dawn redwood, Chinese water fir, 水杉

Scientific Name: Metasequoia glyptostroboides

Distribution: Native to south-central China; also planted as an ornamental tree in temperate regions worldwide

Tree Size: 100-150 ft (30-45 m) tall,

3-8 ft (1-2.5 m) trunk diameter

Average Dried Weight: 21.0 lbs/ft³ (335 kg/m³)

Specific Gravity (Basic, 12% MC): .28, .34

Janka Hardness: 310 lb_f (1,390 N)*

*Estimated hardness based on specific gravity

Modulus of Rupture: 8,900 lb_f/in² (61.4 MPa)

Elastic Modulus: 887,000 lb_f/in² (6.12 GPa)

Crushing Strength: 5,160 lb_f/in² (35.6 MPa)

Shrinkage: Radial: 2.8%, Tangential: 6.0%,

Volumetric: 9.0%, T/R Ratio: 2.1

More images | Identification

Color/Appearance: Heartwood color can range from a light pinkish brown to a deep reddish brown. Sapwood is a pale white/yellow.

Grain/Texture: Grain is generally straight, though figured pieces may be wavy or irregular. Coarse texture with low natural luster.

Rot Resistance: Rated as moderately durable to very durable regarding decay resistance. Lumber from old-growth trees tends to be more durable than that from younger second-growth trees.

Workability: Typically easy to work with hand tools or machinery, but planer tearout can occur on figured pieces with curly, wavy, or irregular grain. Glues and finishes well.

Odor: Redwood has a distinct odor when being worked, though unlike cedar, this odor subsides after being worked.

Allergies/Toxicity: Although there have been no adverse health effects directly associated with dawn redwood, the closely related coast redwood has been reported as a sensitizer. Usually most common reactions simply include eye, skin, and respiratory irritation, as well as asthma-like symptoms. See the articles Wood Allergies and Toxicity and Wood Dust Safety for more information.

Pricing/Availability: Originally presumed to be extinct, dawn redwood is generally only available on a very limited basis—primarily from felled or storm damaged ornamental trees.

Sustainability: This wood species is not listed in the CITES Appendices, but is on the IUCN Red List. It is listed as endangered due a severely fragmented extent of occurrence, as well as an overall decline in natural habitat and number of mature trees. Technically, all mature native trees have been declared protected, but the underlying habitat protection has been assessed as “inadequate.”^[1]Farjon, A. 2013. Metasequoia glyptostroboides. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2013: e.T32317A2814244. https://dx.doi.org/10.2305/IUCN.UK.2013-1.RLTS.T32317A2814244.en. Accessed on 07 … Continue reading A 2011 investigation showed that this habitat decline came as a result of human activity.^[2]Tang, C. Q., Yang, Y., Ohsawa, M., Momohara, A., Hara, M., Cheng, S., & Fan, S. (2011). Population structure of relict Metasequoia glyptostroboides and its habitat fragmentation and degradation … Continue reading

Common Uses: Some suggested uses include using the wood for production of hardboard or chipboard, as well as non-structural applications where good dimensional stability is needed.^[3]Kozakiewicz, P., & Monder, S. (2016). Physical and mechanical properties and anatomy of metasequoia wood (Metasequoia glyptostroboides Hu et Cheng). Annals of Warsaw University of Life … Continue reading

Comments: Originally described from fossils, dawn redwood was only known as a long-extinct species. However, a series of discoveries in the 1940s in rural China led to the realization that present-day living trees “not far from extinction” matched those in the fossil record.^[4]Merrill, E.D. 1948. Metasequoia, another ‘living fossil’. Arnoldia 8(1). Shortly thereafter, Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University funded an expedition which resulted in the collection and exporting of viable seeds, eventually resulting in the species being planted not only in arboretums, but also becoming an established ornamental species worldwide. While the number of wild specimens continues to slowly decline, dawn redwood is now widely cultivated in temperate regions worldwide—indeed, the city of Pizhou, China features a 29-mile (46 km) long avenue lined with approximately one million dawn redwoods.^[5]Browell, M. (2013). The creation of the longest tree avenue in the world. Arboricultural journal, 35(1), 50-54.

Dawn redwood lumber tends to be very soft, and commensurately weak. A 2016 analysis of dawn redwood concluded, “In its solid form, this wood has too low density and is not suitable for the production of structural elements, floor materials and joinery.”^[6]Kozakiewicz, P., & Monder, S. (2016). Physical and mechanical properties and anatomy of metasequoia wood (Metasequoia glyptostroboides Hu et Cheng). Annals of Warsaw University of Life … Continue reading

Images: Drag the slider up/down to toggle between raw and finished wood. The first sample pictured shows a slower-grown sample, while the remaining two show faster-grown trees with very widely spaced growth rings.

Identification: See the article on Softwood Anatomy for definitions of endgrain features.

Dawn redwood, slower growth (endgrain 10x)

Dawn redwood, faster growth (endgrain 10x)

Dawn redwood, slower growth (endgrain 1x)

Dawn redwood, faster growth (endgrain 1x)

Resin canals : absent

Tracheid diameter : large to very large

Earlywood to latewood transition : moderately abrupt

Grain contrast : medium

Parenchyma : diffuse

Lookalikes/Substitutes: With its very lightweight yet dark reddish brown heartwood (especially after a finish has been applied), there aren’t very many woods that can be confused with redwood. The most likely candidate for confusion is western red cedar (Thuja plicata). Generally, cedar is lighter in color than redwood, and has a distinct lingering scent.

Notes: None.

> Softwoods > Cupressaceae > Metasequoia > Related Species

There are a total of five species of Metasequoia found in the fossil record, though M. glyptostroboides is the sole surviving species today, leading scientists to view dawn redwood as a “living fossil.”^[7]Ma, J. (2003). The chronology of the” living fossil” Metasequoia glyptostroboides (Taxodiaceae): a review (1943-2003). Harvard Papers in Botany, 9-18.

Additionally, the Cupressaceae family contains a subfamily, Sequoioideae, which contains a total of three extant species—each from three different genera.

Rosewood, Siamese
(Dalbergia cochinchinensis)

Periodic Table of Wood This wood species is included as one of 118 “elemental” woods on this nerdy poster.

Worldwide Woods, Ranked by Hardness Over 500 woods arranged into eight geographic regions and ranked by Janka hardness—all on one 24″ x 36″ poster.

WOOD! Identifying and Using Hundreds of Woods Worldwide All that makes The Wood Database unique, distilled into one potent book.

References[+]

References
↑1	Farjon, A. 2013. Metasequoia glyptostroboides. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2013: e.T32317A2814244. https://dx.doi.org/10.2305/IUCN.UK.2013-1.RLTS.T32317A2814244.en. Accessed on 07 June 2024.
↑2	Tang, C. Q., Yang, Y., Ohsawa, M., Momohara, A., Hara, M., Cheng, S., & Fan, S. (2011). Population structure of relict Metasequoia glyptostroboides and its habitat fragmentation and degradation in south-central China. Biological Conservation, 144(1), 279-289.
↑3, ↑6	Kozakiewicz, P., & Monder, S. (2016). Physical and mechanical properties and anatomy of metasequoia wood (Metasequoia glyptostroboides Hu et Cheng). Annals of Warsaw University of Life Sciences-SGGW, Forestry and Wood Technology, (95), 114-119.
↑4	Merrill, E.D. 1948. Metasequoia, another ‘living fossil’. Arnoldia 8(1).
↑5	Browell, M. (2013). The creation of the longest tree avenue in the world. Arboricultural journal, 35(1), 50-54.
↑7	Ma, J. (2003). The chronology of the” living fossil” Metasequoia glyptostroboides (Taxodiaceae): a review (1943-2003). Harvard Papers in Botany, 9-18.

The post Dawn Redwood appeared first on The Wood Database.

Giant Sequoia

Eric — Sat, 25 May 2024 12:40:23 +0000

> Softwoods > Cupressaceae > Sequoiadendron > giganteum

DATA SOURCE(S): 51

Giant sequoia (Sequoiadendron giganteum)

Common Name(s): Giant sequoia, giant redwood, sierra redwood, wellingtonia

Scientific Name: Sequoiadendron giganteum

Distribution: California (Sierra Nevada mountain range);

Tree Size: 165-260 ft (50-80 m) tall,

10-20 ft (3-6 m) trunk diameter

Average Dried Weight: 23.3 lbs/ft³ (375 kg/m³)

Specific Gravity (Basic, 12% MC): .33, .37

Janka Hardness: 420 lb_f (1,850 N)

Modulus of Rupture: 7,610 lb_f/in² (52.4 MPa)

Elastic Modulus: 985,000 lb_f/in² (6.79 GPa)

Crushing Strength: 4,910 lb_f/in² (33.9 MPa)

Shrinkage: Radial: 1.8%, Tangential: 4.0%,

Volumetric: 6.3%, T/R Ratio: 2.3

More images | Identification

Color/Appearance: Heartwood color can range from a light pinkish brown to a deep reddish brown. Sapwood is a pale white/yellow. When compared with the more common coast redwood, heartwood color of giant sequoia tends to be slightly darker, sometimes with a purplish cast.

Grain/Texture: Grain is generally straight, though figured pieces may be be wavy or irregular. Coarse texture with low natural luster.

Rot Resistance: Rated as moderately durable to very durable regarding decay resistance. Lumber from old-growth trees tends to be more durable than that from younger second-growth trees.

Workability: Typically easy to work with hand tools or machinery, but planer tearout can occur on figured pieces with curly, wavy, or irregular grain. Glues and finishes well.

Odor: Giant sequoia has a distinct odor when being worked, though unlike cedar, this odor subsides after being worked.

Allergies/Toxicity: Although there have been no adverse health effects directly associated with giant sequoia, the closely related coast redwood has been reported as a sensitizer. Usually most common reactions simply include eye, skin, and respiratory irritation, as well as asthma-like symptoms. See the articles Wood Allergies and Toxicity and Wood Dust Safety for more information.

Pricing/Availability: Giant sequoia has generally been completely eclipsed by the closely related coast redwood for most commercial purposes. Any potential uses would come from second-growth or plantation-grown trees, making use of the wood’s decay resistance.

Sustainability: This wood species is not listed in the CITES Appendices, but is on the IUCN Red List. It is listed as endangered due to a limited and declining area of occupancy. Even though nearly all giant sequoia groves occur within protected areas, as mature trees gradually die, they are usually replaced with competing conifers, leading to a gradual decline in the native population.^[1]Schmid, R. & Farjon, A. 2013. Sequoiadendron giganteum. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2013: … Continue reading

Common Uses: Fence posts, shingles, and match sticks.

Comments: True to its name, giant sequoia trees can reach very large sizes, among the most massive trees on earth.

Unlike most other conifers, lumber taken from old-growth giant sequoia trees tends to yield lumber that is actually weaker, lighter, and more brittle than second-growth trees. (The mechanical values listed at the top of the page represent the averages between both old-growth lumber and second-growth lumber.)

For clarity, the values of each type of lumber is separated out below.^[2]Cockrell, R. A., Knudson, R. M., & Stangenberger, A. G. (1971). Mechanical properties of southern Sierra old-and second-growth Giant Sequoia. Bulletin of the California Agricultural Experiment … Continue reading Note the abnormally low MOR and MOE values for old-growth lumber.

	Old-Growth Lumber	Second-Growth Lumber
Average Dried Weight:	19.4 lbs/ft³ (310 kg/m³)	23.7 lbs/ft³ (380 kg/m³)
Janka Hardness:	360 lb_f (1,600 N)	470 lb_f (2,090 N)
Modulus of Rupture:	5,870 lb_f/in² (40.5 MPa)	9,340 lb_f/in² (64.4 MPa)
Elastic Modulus:	680,000 lb_f/in² (4.69 GPa)	1,290,000 lb_f/in² (8.90 GPa)
Crushing Strength:	4,420 lb_f/in² (30.5 MPa)	5,410 lb_f/in² (37.3 MPa)

Images: Drag the slider up/down to toggle between raw and finished wood.

Identification: See the article on Softwood Anatomy for definitions of endgrain features.

Giant sequoia (endgrain 10x)

Giant sequoia (endgrain 1x)

Resin canals : absent

Tracheid diameter : large to very large

Earlywood to latewood transition : moderately abrupt

Grain contrast : medium

Parenchyma : diffuse

Lookalikes/Substitutes: With its very lightweight yet dark reddish brown heartwood (especially after a finish has been applied), there aren’t very many woods that can be confused with coast redwood. The most likely candidate for confusion is western red cedar (Thuja plicata). Generally, cedar is lighter in color than redwood, and has a distinct lingering scent.

Notes: None.

> Softwoods > Cupressaceae > Sequoia > Related Species

The Sequoiadendron genus contains one other species, S. chaneyi, an extinct prehistoric species, making S. giganteum the sole surviving species today. However, the Cupressaceae family contains a subfamily, Sequoioideae, which contains a total of three extant species—each from three different genera.

Rosewood, Siamese
(Dalbergia cochinchinensis)

Worldwide Woods, Ranked by Hardness Over 500 woods arranged into eight geographic regions and ranked by Janka hardness—all on one 24″ x 36″ poster.

WOOD! Identifying and Using Hundreds of Woods Worldwide All that makes The Wood Database unique, distilled into one potent book.

Wood Filter Search, sort, and filter hundreds of woods from across the globe and break out of the ordinary!

References[+]

References
↑1	Schmid, R. & Farjon, A. 2013. Sequoiadendron giganteum. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2013: e.T34023A2840676. https://dx.doi.org/10.2305/IUCN.UK.2013-1.RLTS.T34023A2840676.en. Accessed on 31 May 2024.
↑2	Cockrell, R. A., Knudson, R. M., & Stangenberger, A. G. (1971). Mechanical properties of southern Sierra old-and second-growth Giant Sequoia. Bulletin of the California Agricultural Experiment Station, (854).

The post Giant Sequoia appeared first on The Wood Database.

Taiwan Zelkova

Eric — Thu, 18 Apr 2024 15:30:47 +0000

> Hardwoods > Ulmaceae > Zelkova > serrata var. tarokoensis

DATA SOURCE(S): 36,43,49,50

Taiwan Zelkova (Z. carpinifolia pictured)

Common Name(s): Taiwan zelkova, 榉树

Scientific Name: Zelkova serrata var. tarokoensis

Distribution: Endemic to Taiwan

Tree Size: 65-100 ft (20-30 m) tall,

2-4 ft (.6-1.2 m) trunk diameter

Average Dried Weight: 58.9 lbs/ft³ (945 kg/m³)

Specific Gravity (Basic, 12% MC): .78, .94

Janka Hardness: 2,630 lb_f (11,690 N)*

*Estimated hardness based on specific gravity.

Strength Values: Not available; reported to be in strength class S2^[1]Keating, W. G., Bolza, E. (1982). Characteristics, Properties, and Uses of Timbers: South-east Asia, Northern Australia, and the Pacific (p. 362). United Kingdom: Texas A&M University Press. (see article on obscure woods for details)

Shrinkage: Radial: ~5%, Tangential: ~8%,

Volumetric: ~13%, T/R Ratio: ~1.6

More images | Identification

Color/Appearance: Heartwood is light to medium golden brown, usually distinct from the lighter yellowish brown sapwood. Quartersawn sections can display minute ray fleck patterns due to the wide rays. Overall appearance is very similar elm (Ulmus spp.).

Grain/Texture: Grain varies from straight to irregular and interlocked.

Rot Resistance: Rated as very durable, with good insect resistance.

Workability: Easy to work with both hand and machine tools. Turns, glues, and finishes well.

Odor: No characteristic odor.

Allergies/Toxicity: Besides the standard health risks associated with any type of wood dust, no further health reactions have been associated with keyaki. See the articles Wood Allergies and Toxicity and Wood Dust Safety for more information.

Pricing/Availability: Although used extensively in the past, keyaki is generally not available commercially nowadays.

Sustainability: This wood species is not listed in the CITES Appendices, but is assessed by IUCN as being near threatened. Although the species as a whole is not threatened, certain areas where the tree occurs, specifically in China and Korea,^[2]Bétrisey, S., Song, Y. & Kozlowski, G. 2018. Zelkova serrata. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2018: … Continue reading have seen a decline in habitat quality and extent of occurrence.

Common Uses: Used domestically within its natural range, usually for decorative purposes such as furniture, carvings, and lacquer works. Currently, the wood is reserved for historically-accurate restoration of ancient temples and shrines within its natural range.^[3]Timbers of the World: Vol. 2 (p. 34). (1980). United Kingdom: TRADA

Comments: In addition to this species, there is also a variant endemic to Taiwan (Zelkova serrata var. tarokoensis) with markedly higher density.

Images: Drag the slider up/down to toggle between raw and finished wood.

Do you have images of projects made from this wood species? You can submit them to me here.

Identification: See the article on Hardwood Anatomy for definitions of endgrain features.

Zelkova (endgrain 10x)

Zelkova (endgrain 1x)

Porosity: ring porous

Arrangement: earlywood pores typically one (or two) rows wide, latewood pores in wavy tangential bands (ulmiform)

Vessels: medium to very large earlywood pores, small to medium latewood pores; tyloses common

Parenchyma: vasicentric, confluent

Rays: wide width, wide spacing; rays are visible without magnification

Lookalikes/Substitutes: Bears a very close resemblance to elm (Ulmus spp.).

Notes: None.

> Hardwoods > Ulmaceae > Zelkova > Related Species

Rosewood, Siamese
(Dalbergia cochinchinensis)

Restricted and Endangered Wood Species From CITES appendices to IUCN status, what you need to know about today’s wood situation.

Worldwide Woods, Ranked by Hardness Over 500 woods arranged into eight geographic regions and ranked by Janka hardness—all on one 24″ x 36″ poster.

Wood Filter Search, sort, and filter hundreds of woods from across the globe and break out of the ordinary!

References[+]

References
↑1	Keating, W. G., Bolza, E. (1982). Characteristics, Properties, and Uses of Timbers: South-east Asia, Northern Australia, and the Pacific (p. 362). United Kingdom: Texas A&M University Press.
↑2	Bétrisey, S., Song, Y. & Kozlowski, G. 2018. Zelkova serrata. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2018: e.T61967528A61967548. https://dx.doi.org/10.2305/IUCN.UK.2018-2.RLTS.T61967528A61967548.en. Accessed on 18 April 2024.
↑3	Timbers of the World: Vol. 2 (p. 34). (1980). United Kingdom: TRADA

The post Taiwan Zelkova appeared first on The Wood Database.

Keyaki

Eric — Thu, 18 Apr 2024 05:11:29 +0000

> Hardwoods > Ulmaceae > Zelkova > serrata

DATA SOURCE(S): 16,43,47,48

Keyaki (Z. carpinifolia pictured)

Common Name(s): Keyaki, Japanese elm, ケヤキ, 榉树, 느티나무

Scientific Name: Zelkova serrata

Distribution: Japan, Korea, and eastern China

Tree Size: 65-100 ft (20-30 m) tall,

2-3 ft (.6-1 m) trunk diameter

Average Dried Weight: 38.7 lbs/ft³ (620 kg/m³)

Specific Gravity (Basic, 12% MC): .55, .62

Janka Hardness: 1,040 lb_f (4,640 N)

Modulus of Rupture: 14,020 lb_f/in² (96.7 MPa)

Elastic Modulus: 1,556,000 lb_f/in² (10.73 GPa)

Crushing Strength: 7,400 lb_f/in² (51.1 MPa)

Shrinkage: Radial: ~5%, Tangential: ~8%,

Volumetric: ~13%, T/R Ratio: ~1.6*
*Shrinkage values are for the subspecies Z. serrata var. tarokoensis

More images | Identification

Color/Appearance: Heartwood is light to medium golden brown, usually distinct from the lighter yellowish brown sapwood. Quartersawn sections can display minute ray fleck patterns due to the wide rays. Overall appearance is very similar elm (Ulmus spp.).

Grain/Texture: Grain varies from straight to irregular and interlocked.

Rot Resistance: Rated as very durable, with good insect resistance.

Workability: Easy to work with both hand and machine tools. Turns, glues, and finishes well.

Odor: No characteristic odor.

Allergies/Toxicity: Besides the standard health risks associated with any type of wood dust, no further health reactions have been associated with keyaki. See the articles Wood Allergies and Toxicity and Wood Dust Safety for more information.

Pricing/Availability: Although used extensively in the past, keyaki is generally not available commercially nowadays.

Sustainability: This wood species is not listed in the CITES Appendices, but is assessed by IUCN as being near threatened. Although the species as a whole is not threatened, certain areas where the tree occurs, specifically in China and Korea,^[1]Bétrisey, S., Song, Y. & Kozlowski, G. 2018. Zelkova serrata. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2018: … Continue reading have seen a decline in habitat quality and extent of occurrence.

Common Uses: Used domestically within its natural range, usually for decorative purposes such as furniture, carvings, and lacquer works. Currently, the wood is reserved for historically-accurate restoration of ancient temples and shrines within its natural range.^[2]Timbers of the World: Vol. 2 (p. 34). (1980). United Kingdom: TRADA

Comments: In addition to this species, there is also a variant endemic to Taiwan (Zelkova serrata var. tarokoensis) with markedly higher density.

Images: Drag the slider up/down to toggle between raw and finished wood.

(Note that the wood pictured below is of related Zelkova carpinifolia, pictures of this actual species are forthcoming.)

Do you have images of projects made from this wood species? You can submit them to me here.

Identification: See the article on Hardwood Anatomy for definitions of endgrain features.

Zelkova (endgrain 10x)

Zelkova (endgrain 1x)

Porosity: ring porous

Arrangement: earlywood pores typically one (or two) rows wide, latewood pores in wavy tangential bands (ulmiform)

Vessels: medium to very large earlywood pores, small to medium latewood pores; tyloses common

Parenchyma: vasicentric, confluent

Rays: wide width, wide spacing; rays are visible without magnification

Lookalikes/Substitutes: Bears a very close resemblance to elm (Ulmus spp.).

Notes: None.

> Hardwoods > Ulmaceae > Zelkova > Related Species

Rosewood, Siamese
(Dalbergia cochinchinensis)

WOOD! Identifying and Using Hundreds of Woods Worldwide All that makes The Wood Database unique, distilled into one potent book.

Worldwide Woods, Ranked by Hardness Over 500 woods arranged into eight geographic regions and ranked by Janka hardness—all on one 24″ x 36″ poster.

Wood Filter Search, sort, and filter hundreds of woods from across the globe and break out of the ordinary!

References[+]

References
↑1	Bétrisey, S., Song, Y. & Kozlowski, G. 2018. Zelkova serrata. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2018: e.T61967528A61967548. https://dx.doi.org/10.2305/IUCN.UK.2018-2.RLTS.T61967528A61967548.en. Accessed on 18 April 2024.
↑2	Timbers of the World: Vol. 2 (p. 34). (1980). United Kingdom: TRADA

The post Keyaki appeared first on The Wood Database.

Argentine Lignum Vitae

Eric — Tue, 02 Apr 2024 13:25:19 +0000

> Hardwoods > Zygophyllaceae > Plectrocarpa > sarmientoi

DATA SOURCE(S): 34,36,39,46

Argentine Lignum Vitae (Plectrocarpa sarmientoi)

Common Name(s): Argentine lignum vitae, palo santo

Scientific Name: Plectrocarpa sarmientoi (formerly placed in the Bulnesia genus; see comments below)

Distribution: Gran Chaco region of South America (much commercial lumber comes from Argentina)

Tree Size: 40-50 ft (12-15 m) tall,

1-2 ft (.3-.6 m) trunk diameter

Average Dried Weight: 74.9 lbs/ft³ (1,200 kg/m³)

Specific Gravity (Basic, 12% MC): 1.10, 1.20

Janka Hardness: 3,870 lb_f (17,230 N)

Modulus of Rupture: 20,160 lb_f/in² (139.0 MPa)

Elastic Modulus: 2,618,000 lb_f/in² (18.05 GPa)

Crushing Strength: 13,800 lb_f/in² (95.2 MPa)

Shrinkage: Radial: 4.8%, Tangential: 7.8%,

Volumetric: 12.0%, T/R Ratio: 1.6

More images | Identification

Color/Appearance: Heartwood color can range from pale yellowish olive to a deeper forest green or dark brown. The color tends to darken with age, especially upon exposure to light (see light-change color photo below). Pale yellow sapwood is clearly demarcated from heartwood. Quartersawn grain has a unique feathered or herringbone pattern when viewed up close.

Grain/Texture: Grain is usually interlocked. Fine even texture with very high natural luster.

Rot Resistance: Reported to be very durable for outdoor use—the related Plectrocarpa arborea is said to last “indefinitely.”^[1]Chudnoff, M. (1984). Tropical timbers of the world (p. 56). US Department of Agriculture, Forest Service.

Workability: Argentine lignum vitae has a tendency to skip over-top jointer cutters on account of its extremely high density, and very light passes are recommended. It will also dull cutters, and overall it’s considered quite difficult to work. Also, due to its high oil content and hardness, it is very difficult to get a strong and reliable glue joint and can cause problems during finishing. However, verawood is an exceptional wood for turning on the lathe, and takes on an excellent natural luster.

Odor: Argentine lignum vitae has a distinct, perfume-like fragrance that lingers even after it has been machined. This species is currently protected as an endangered species—in part due to its over-harvesting for extraction of its fragrant oil, sometimes called oil of guaiac.

Allergies/Toxicity: While there are currently no reports on this exact species, sawdust from the closely related Plectrocarpa arborea has been reported to cause sneezing, and lignum vitae (also in the Zygophyllaceae family) has been reported to cause skin irritation. See the articles Wood Allergies and Toxicity and Wood Dust Safety for more information.

Pricing/Availability: Should be priced in the mid to upper range of imported exotic woods, with increasing scarcity. Turning blanks and other small pieces are sometimes available, comparing similarly with other premium tropical hardwoods. Larger pieces of craft lumber are less common but are also occasionally available.

Sustainability: This wood species is in CITES Appendix II, and is on the IUCN Red List. It is listed as endangered due to a projected population reduction of over 50% in the next three generations—primarily concentrated on the projected habitat loss in the Gran Chaco region of South America.^[2]Barstow, M. 2018. Bulnesia sarmientoi. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2018: e.T32028A68085692. https://dx.doi.org/10.2305/IUCN.UK.2018-2.RLTS.T32028A68085692.en. Accessed on 11 April … Continue reading

Common Uses: Tool handles, mallet heads, bearings, bushings, boatbuilding, pulley wheels, heavy construction (in areas where the tree grows locally), and turned objects.

Comments: True to its name, Argentine lignum vitae has very similar appearances and working characteristics to true lignum vitae (Guaiacum spp.). Though this Argentine species is in a different genus than lignum vitae, (Plectrocarpa and Guaiacum, respectively) both genera are biologically classified in the same family: Zygophyllaceae. Both woods are extremely hard, heavy, oily, and have a distinct brownish olive color. However, some retailers have adopted the dubious practice of dropping the “Argentine” or any other classifier from the common name and simply refer to Plectrocarpa species as lignum vitae. While Plectrocarpa is a satisfactory drop-in replacement for true lignum vitae for most applications (with the exception of bearings^[3]Timbers of the World (p. 233). (1979). United Kingdom: Construction Press. TRADA.), this is a misleading omission that implies a historical wood of greater commercial value.
Recent genetic tests have shown that the two commercial species formerly placed in the Bulnesia genus belong in a separate genera. The initial report proposed these species be placed in Gonopterodendron—in the case of Argentine lignum vitae, Gonopterodendron sarmientoi,^[4]Godoy-Bürki, A. C., Acosta, J. M., & Aagesen, L. (2018). Phylogenetic relationships within the New World subfamily Larreoideae (Zygophyllaceae) confirm polyphyly of the disjunct genus … Continue reading though subsequent classifications have placed these species in the genus Plectrocarpa.^[5]Govaerts, R., Nic Lughadha, E., Black, N., Turner, R., & Paton, A. (2021). The World Checklist of Vascular Plants, a continuously updated resource for exploring global plant … Continue reading
Since genuine lignum vitae was in the inaugural round of CITES-listed endangered species from 1975, Argentine lignum vitae has been a popular substitute. Yet even this species has eventually found its way on to the same CITES Appendix II, with both species now being considered endangered.
Sometimes called palo santo (Spanish for ‘holy wood’) this wood is used for incense—though this common name is more commonly used for the species Bursera graveolens.

Images: Drag the slider up/down to toggle between raw and finished wood. The image showing the differences in color with light exposure was taken of a wax-covered turning blank (where the moisture/air exposure would’ve been more or less the same), yet the lighter portion was under a label—presumably showing that the difference was due to light exposure.

A special thanks to Steve Earis for providing turned photo of this wood species. (The two balls in the picture below were turned at different times and show the color change between fresh and aged wood.) You can see more of his work at Steve’s Wooden Skittle Pins and Balls.

Argentine lignum vitae (color change)

Argentine Lignum Vitae (light exposure)

Argentine Lignum Vitae (turned)

Identification: See the article on Hardwood Anatomy for definitions of endgrain features.

Argentine lignum vitae (endgrain 10x)

Argentine lignum vitae (endgrain 1x)

Porosity: diffuse porous; growth rings sometimes subtly discernible due to decrease in pore frequency and size in latewood

Arrangement: predominantly radial multiples, pore chains, and sometimes clusters; in diagonal/radial arrangement (and sometimes dendritic)

Vessels: small to medium, moderately numerous to numerous

Parenchyma: diffuse-in-aggregates and vasicentric, though in practice parenchyma not really visible, even under 10x magnification

Rays: narrow width, normal spacing; rays not visible without magnification

Lookalikes/Substitutes: On account of its greenish color and high density, greenheart is one of the most commonly confused hardwoods with verawood. Other dense, olive-hued hardwoods (usually used for decking) can bear a similarity to verawood, such as ipe, cumaru, jucaro, and angelim vermelho—though all these woods lack the radial multiples and pore chains found in the unique anatomy of verawood.

Notes: The related species of true lignum vitae (Guaiacum spp.) in the Zygophyllaceae family bear the closest resemblance to verawood—though these species can also be separated from Plectrocarpa from their lack of radial multiples and pore chains. For more information on sorting these related species out, see the article How to Tell Genuine Lignum Vitae from Argentine Lignum Vitae.

> Hardwoods > Zygophyllaceae > Plectrocarpa > Related Species

Rosewood, Siamese
(Dalbergia cochinchinensis)

Worldwide Woods, Ranked by Hardness Over 500 woods arranged into eight geographic regions and ranked by Janka hardness—all on one 24″ x 36″ poster.

Finishing Exotic and Tropical Hardwoods Some woods can turn the finishing process into a gummy mess. Here’s how to avoid common pitfalls.

Periodic Table of Wood This wood species is included as one of 118 “elemental” woods on this nerdy poster.

WOOD! Identifying and Using Hundreds of Woods Worldwide All that makes The Wood Database unique, distilled into one potent book.

Preventing Color Changes in Exotic Woods Nearly all wood tends to turn brown over time. Here’s what you can do to maintain color longer.

Halo Woods (and Shady Naming Practices Well known woods can have their “brand recognition” stolen by unknown newcomers.

Gluing Oily Tropical Hardwoods What do you do when the wood you’re working with seems impervious to moisture?

Wood Filter Search, sort, and filter hundreds of woods from across the globe and break out of the ordinary!

Restricted and Endangered Wood Species From CITES appendices to IUCN status, what you need to know about today’s wood situation.

References[+]

References
↑1	Chudnoff, M. (1984). Tropical timbers of the world (p. 56). US Department of Agriculture, Forest Service.
↑2	Barstow, M. 2018. Bulnesia sarmientoi. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2018: e.T32028A68085692. https://dx.doi.org/10.2305/IUCN.UK.2018-2.RLTS.T32028A68085692.en. Accessed on 11 April 2024.
↑3	Timbers of the World (p. 233). (1979). United Kingdom: Construction Press. TRADA.
↑4	Godoy-Bürki, A. C., Acosta, J. M., & Aagesen, L. (2018). Phylogenetic relationships within the New World subfamily Larreoideae (Zygophyllaceae) confirm polyphyly of the disjunct genus Bulnesia. Systematics and Biodiversity, 16(5), 453-468.
↑5	Govaerts, R., Nic Lughadha, E., Black, N., Turner, R., & Paton, A. (2021). The World Checklist of Vascular Plants, a continuously updated resource for exploring global plant diversity. Scientific data, 8(1), 215.

The post Argentine Lignum Vitae appeared first on The Wood Database.

Queensland Olive

Eric — Thu, 21 Dec 2023 05:41:17 +0000

> Hardwoods > Oleaceae > Chionanthus > ramiflorus

DATA SOURCE(S): 36,41

Queensland olive (Chionanthus ramiflorus)

Common Name(s): Queensland olive, native olive, northern olive

Scientific Name: Chionanthus ramiflorus (syn. Olea paniculata)

Distribution: Northern Australia (Queensland), southern Asia, and some Pacific Islands

Average Dried Weight: 57.1 lbs/ft³ (915 kg/m³)

Janka Hardness: 2,080 lb_f (9,240 N)*

*Estimated hardness based on specific gravity

Comments: Formerly placed in the true olive genus (as Olea paniculata), this species is now generally placed in either the Linociera genus or Chionanthus. Within Australia it is usually just referred to as ‘native olive’—though to avoid confusion with the much more popular olive tree (Olea europaea) bearing edible olives, it is listed here under the more descriptive name Queensland olive.

Note: This is a truncated profile page. If you feel this species is deserving of having its own full page, or if you have any helpful info or experience with this wood species, please leave a comment down below.

Images: Drag the slider up/down to toggle between raw and finished wood.

WOOD! Identifying and Using Hundreds of Woods Worldwide All that makes The Wood Database unique, distilled into one potent book.

Do you have images of projects made from this wood species? You can submit them to me here.

Identification: See the article on Hardwood Anatomy for definitions of endgrain features.

Queensland olive (endgrain 10x)

Queensland olive (endgrain 1x)

> Hardwoods > Oleaceae > Chionanthus > >Related Species

None available

The post Queensland Olive appeared first on The Wood Database.

Elgon Olive

Eric — Thu, 21 Dec 2023 04:22:00 +0000

> Hardwoods > Oleaceae > Olea > welwitschii

DATA SOURCE(S): 6,15,36,43

Elgon olive (Olea welwitschii)

Common Name(s): Elgon olive, loliondo, mushargi, Elgon teak

Scientific Name: Olea welwitschii

Distribution: Sub-Saharan Africa, south to Mozambique

Tree Size: 50-80 ft (15-25 m) tall,

1-2 ft (.3-.6 m) trunk diameter

Average Dried Weight: 48.0 lbs/ft³ (770 kg/m³)

Specific Gravity (Basic, 12% MC): .65,

Janka Hardness: 1,660 lb_f (7,380 N)

Modulus of Rupture: 16,140 lb_f/in² (111.3 MPa)

Elastic Modulus: 1,568,000 lb_f/in² (10.81 GPa)

Crushing Strength: 10,230 lb_f/in² (70.5 MPa)

Shrinkage: Radial: ~2%, Tangential: ~4%,

Volumetric: ~6%, T/R Ratio: ~2

More images | Identification

Color/Appearance: Heartwood is typically yellow to light reddish brown, with contrasting darker brown to black streaks and veins. Yellowish sapwood is generally sharply demarcated from the heartwood, though it can be harder to tell apart if the heartwood lacks contrasting streaks. Overall color tends to deepen with age. Olive is sometimes figured with curly or wavy grain, burl, or wild grain.

Grain/Texture: Grain may be straight, interlocked, or wild. Fine uniform texture with moderate natural luster. Slightly oily to the touch.

Rot Resistance: Rated as moderately durable to durable. Mixed insect/borer resistance.

Workability: Somewhat easy to work, though wild or interlocked grain may result in tearout during surfacing operations. Elgon olive tends to have slightly better stability than other Olea species, though it still experiences a fair degree of movement in service. Turns, carves, and finishes well.

Odor: Has a distinct, fruity scent when being worked.

Allergies/Toxicity: Although severe reactions are quite uncommon, olive has been reported as a sensitizer. Usually most common reactions simply include eye and skin irritation. See the articles Wood Allergies and Toxicity and Wood Dust Safety for more information.

Pricing/Availability: Typically only available as veneer or smaller craft blanks, natural-edged slabs and smaller boards are occasionally available. Expect prices to be high for an imported hardwood.

Sustainability: This wood species is not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

Common Uses: High-end furniture, veneer, turned objects, and small specialty wood items.

Comments: Named for the region of Mount Elgon bordering Uganda and Kenya, the tree is also called by the Swahili names mushargi and loliondo. Technically, all these names are also applied to East African olive (Olea capensis), and Elgon olive is sometimes considered to be a subspecies (listed as O. capensis ssp.welwitschii), though it is now generally recognized as a distinct species.^[1]Green, P. S. (2002). A revision of Olea L.(Oleaceae). Kew Bulletin, 91-140. The specific epithet welwitschii is derived from 19th century Austrian botanist Friedrich Welwitsch—who is perhaps better known for discovering the bizarre, monotypic, CITES-listed plant Welwitschia.
Unlike the very minor differences in wood properties between the two primary species of commercial olive (Olea europaea and O. capensis), Elgon olive tends to be markedly lighter in weight (roughly 20% lighter, on average), and also more stable in service. However, it can also lack the contrasting streaks and veins that make olive wood so attractive. Accordingly, Elgon olive is also sometimes referred to as Elgon teak—though the wood is not botanically related to true teak (Tectona grandis).

Images: Drag the slider up/down to toggle between raw and finished wood. The first sample shows the characteristic striping found in most olive species, while the second is an example of a more bland and unfigured board.

Identification: See the article on Hardwood Anatomy for definitions of endgrain features.

Elgon olive (endgrain 10x)

Elgon olive (endgrain 1x)

Porosity: diffuse porous; growth rings generally not discernible

Arrangement: primarily in radial multiples of two to four

Vessels: medium, moderately numerous; yellowish brown deposits common

Parenchyma: vasicentric, though on most samples very little if any parenchyma is visible

Rays: narrow width, normal spacing

Lookalikes/Substitutes: With its dramatic contrasting streaks and veins, olive is sometimes confused with zebrawood (Microberlinia brazzavillensis). However, zebrawood has very large pores (giving the wood a coarse, open texture), as well as visible winged and banded parenchyma.

Notes: East African olive (Olea capensis) is a closely related species that is very similar to O. welwitschii. Generally, the wood is about 20% heavier and the pores may be slightly smaller in O. capensis.

> Hardwoods > Oleaceae > Olea > Related Species

Rosewood, Siamese
(Dalbergia cochinchinensis)

WOOD! Identifying and Using Hundreds of Woods Worldwide All that makes The Wood Database unique, distilled into one potent book.

References[+]

References
↑1	Green, P. S. (2002). A revision of Olea L.(Oleaceae). Kew Bulletin, 91-140.

The post Elgon Olive appeared first on The Wood Database.

East African Olive

Eric — Mon, 18 Dec 2023 10:39:50 +0000

> Hardwoods > Oleaceae > Olea > capensis

DATA SOURCE(S): 1,6,15,36,38

East African olive (Olea capensis)

Common Name(s): East African olive, black ironwood, Elgon olive, ironwood olive

Scientific Name: Olea capensis; divided into three subspecies (see comments below)

Distribution: Primarily East Africa, though also occurring as far west as Sierra Leone and south to South Africa

Tree Size: 65-115 ft (20-35 m) tall,

2-3 ft (.6-1 m) trunk diameter

Average Dried Weight: 62.0 lbs/ft³ (975 kg/m³)

Specific Gravity (Basic, 12% MC): .74, .98

Janka Hardness: 2,700 lb_f (12,000 N)

Modulus of Rupture: 22,530 lb_f/in² (155.4 MPa)

Elastic Modulus: 2,577,000 lb_f/in² (17.77 GPa)

Crushing Strength: 11,180 lb_f/in² (77.1 MPa)

Shrinkage: Radial: 5.4%, Tangential: 8.8%,

Volumetric: 14.4%, T/R Ratio: 1.6

More images | Identification

Color/Appearance: Heartwood is typically yellow to light reddish brown, with contrasting darker brown to black streaks and veins. Yellowish sapwood is generally sharply demarcated from the heartwood, though it can be harder to tell apart if the heartwood lacks contrasting streaks. Overall color tends to deepen with age. Olive is sometimes figured with curly or wavy grain, burl, or wild grain.

Grain/Texture: Grain may be straight, interlocked, or wild. Fine uniform texture with moderate natural luster. Slightly oily to the touch.

Rot Resistance: Rated as moderately durable to durable. Susceptible to termites and other borers, though resistant to powder-post beetles.

Workability: Can be somewhat difficult to work on account of its density and sometimes wild or interlocked grain, resulting in tearout during surfacing operations. Due to the high oil content found in this wood, it can occasionally cause problems with gluing. East African olive has high movement in service, and is considered to have poor stability, though perhaps not to the extent of Olea europaea, since trunk wood is more frequently harvested, instead of the more-problematic branch wood. Turns, carves, and finishes well.

Odor: Has a distinct, fruity scent when being worked.

Allergies/Toxicity: Although severe reactions are quite uncommon, olive has been reported as a sensitizer. Usually most common reactions simply include eye and skin irritation. See the articles Wood Allergies and Toxicity and Wood Dust Safety for more information.

Pricing/Availability: Typically only available as veneer or smaller craft blanks, natural-edged slabs and smaller boards are occasionally available. Expect prices to be high for an imported hardwood.

Sustainability: This wood species is not listed in the CITES Appendices, and is reported by the IUCN as being a species of least concern.

Common Uses: High-end furniture, veneer, turned objects, and small specialty wood items.

Comments: Olea capensis is currently divided into three subspecies,^[1]Green, P. S. (2002). A revision of Olea L.(Oleaceae). Kew Bulletin, 91-140. and the taxonomy of the species contains many synonyms used in literature in the past.^[2]Lemmens, R. H. M. J., Louppe, D., & Oteng-Amoako, A. A. (2012). Timbers 2 (Vol. 7), 501-504. PROTA.
An overall view of the current subspecies, along with synonyms:
Olea capensis subspecies capensis (syn. O. laurifolia)—native to South Africa. Tends to be a shrub or small tree. Can yield wood that’s very heavy.
O. capensis ssp. enervis—native to Eswatini and South Africa. A less common species tending to occur as a shrub or small tree.
O. capensis ssp. macrocarpa (syn. O. hochstetteri)—the most widespread, and most commercially significant. Can occur as a larger tree, yielding more sizeable pieces of lumber.
The first subspecies listed above, Olea capensis ssp. capensis is the subject of frequent misunderstandings, and is misrepresented as the “heaviest wood in the world” (originally referenced under the synonym O. laurifolia).^[3]Hoadley, R. B. (2000). Understanding wood: a craftsman’s guide to wood technology, p. 15. Taunton press. In actuality, this should be seen as a reference to a single specific piece of wood—with a reported density of 93 lbs/ft³ (1,490 kg/m³)—and not a representation of the average for this subspecies. This type of exceptionalism in wood is discussed in the video The Quest for the Hardest Wood in the World (see below). (And as a point of rebuttal, a single piece of waddywood (Acacia peuce) has since been documented to weigh in at 95 lbs/ft³ (1522 kg/m³)^[4]Lake, M. (2013). Contender for ‘Heaviest Wood.’ World of Wood, 66(1), 25.—besting the oft-misapplied crown as the world’s heaviest wood.
Another closely related species, Elgon olive (Olea welwitschii) has sometimes been treated as another subspecies (listed as O. capensis ssp. welwitschii), though the wood tends to be lighter in weight, and is also now generally regarded as a separate species.^[5]Green, P. S. (2002). A revision of Olea L.(Oleaceae). Kew Bulletin, 91-140.
Although East African olive is not known for its fruit, the species is sometimes used as a root stock, with branches of cultivated Olea europaea being grafted on to produce edible olives. Consequently, because O. capensis is not known for its commercial fruit production, entire trees (especially wild trees) are sometimes harvested for lumber—a practice that would almost be considered sacrilege for fruit-bearing cultivated olive trees, whose recurring fruit is a much more profitable source of income than the lumber.
East African olive is sometimes called black ironwood on account of its high density, not to be confused with Krugiodendron ferreum, a Central American species which also goes by the name black ironwood.

Images: Drag the slider up/down to toggle between raw and finished wood. The second sample shows the variability in color for this species, and should be considered fairly dark for olive.

A special thanks to Salem Barker for providing a sculpture photo of this wood species.

East African olive (sculpture)

East African olive (turned handle)

Identification: See the article on Hardwood Anatomy for definitions of endgrain features.

East African olive (endgrain 10x)

East African olive (endgrain 10)

Porosity: diffuse porous; growth rings generally not discernible

Arrangement: primarily in radial multiples of two to four

Vessels: small to medium, moderately numerous to numerous; yellowish brown deposits common

Parenchyma: vasicentric, though on most samples very little if any parenchyma is visible

Rays: narrow width, normal spacing

Notes: Elgon olive (Olea welwitschii) is a closely related species that is very similar to O. capensis. Generally, the wood is about 20% lighter, and the pores may be slightly larger in O. welwitschii.

> Hardwoods > Oleaceae > Olea > Related Species

Rosewood, Siamese
(Dalbergia cochinchinensis)

Gluing Oily Tropical Hardwoods What do you do when the wood you’re working with seems impervious to moisture?

Fluorescence: A Secret Weapon in Wood Identification All it takes is a simple blacklight to detect a fluorescent response in hardwoods.

WOOD! Identifying and Using Hundreds of Woods Worldwide All that makes The Wood Database unique, distilled into one potent book.

References[+]

References
↑1, ↑5	Green, P. S. (2002). A revision of Olea L.(Oleaceae). Kew Bulletin, 91-140.
↑2	Lemmens, R. H. M. J., Louppe, D., & Oteng-Amoako, A. A. (2012). Timbers 2 (Vol. 7), 501-504. PROTA.
↑3	Hoadley, R. B. (2000). Understanding wood: a craftsman’s guide to wood technology, p. 15. Taunton press.
↑4	Lake, M. (2013). Contender for ‘Heaviest Wood.’ World of Wood, 66(1), 25.

The post East African Olive appeared first on The Wood Database.

Kosipo

Eric — Mon, 25 Sep 2023 07:07:21 +0000

> Hardwoods > Meliaceae > Entandrophragma > candollei

DATA SOURCE(S): 1,5,8,14,20,36

Kosipo (Entandrophragma candollei)

Common Name(s): Kospio, omu

Scientific Name: Entandrophragma candollei

Distribution: West Africa, south to Angola

Tree Size: 100-155 ft (30-50 m) tall,

3-5 ft (1-1.5 m) trunk diameter

Average Dried Weight: 42.5 lbs/ft³ (680 kg/m³)

Specific Gravity (Basic, 12% MC): .58, .68

Janka Hardness: 1,130 lb_f (5,010 N)

Modulus of Rupture: 13,440 lb_f/in² (92.7 MPa)

Elastic Modulus: 1,640,000 lb_f/in² (11.31 GPa)

Crushing Strength: 7,980 lb_f/in² (55.0 MPa)

Shrinkage: Radial: 4.6%, Tangential: 6.6%,

Volumetric: 11.3%, T/R Ratio: 1.4

More images | Identification

Color/Appearance: Heartwood is a golden to dark reddish brown. Color tends to darken with age. Kosipo generally lacks the various grain figuring (quilted, wavy, etc.) that are more common in sapele.

Grain/Texture: Grain is straight to slightly interlocked, which can sometimes produce a moderate striped appearance. Uniform medium to coarse texture and good natural luster.

Rot Resistance: Rated as moderately durable in regard to decay resistance. Susceptible to dry wood and marine borers, with moderate termite resistance.

Workability: Unlike other Entandrophragma species, kosipo can contain up to 0.5% silica,^[1]Louppe, D., Oteng-Amoako, A. A., & Brink, M. (2008). Plant Resources of Tropical Africa 7 (1). Timbers 1 (p. 236). PROTA foundation. and can have an increased blunting effect on cutters. However, the wood is overall easy to work, though pieces with interlocked grain can produce tearout in surfacing operations. Poor steam bending properties, but glues, stains, and finishes well.

Odor: No characteristic odor—lack of scent can be used as a diagnostic to separate it from sapele.

Allergies/Toxicity: Although severe reactions are quite uncommon, kosipo has been reported to cause eye and skin irritation. See the articles Wood Allergies and Toxicity and Wood Dust Safety for more information.

Pricing/Availability: Not commonly exported to North America, kosipo may occasionally be available as either figured veneer or as solid lumber. Expect prices to be in the mid range for an imported hardwood, though likely commensurate to the level of grain figuring present in the wood itself.

Sustainability: This wood species is not listed in the CITES Appendices, but is on the IUCN Red List. It is listed as vulnerable due to a population reduction of over 20% in the past three generations, caused by a decline in its natural range, and exploitation.

Common Uses: Veneer, plywood, boatbuilding, cabinetry, furniture, interior and exterior joinery.

Comments: Along with utile, kosipo occupies a space in the Entandrophragma genus almost completely eclipsed by the incredibly popular sapele (E. cylindricum). Here, the latter can feature some truly dramatic grain figuring (such as quilt or pommele) that the other species in the genus (like kosipo) just can’t match. Nonetheless, kosipo does bear a strong resemblance to mahoganies, particularly the heavier and darker Khaya species which are also native to Africa. Technically, both mahogany and kosipo are contained in the broader Meliaceae family, so the visual similarities are also supported by biology.
When dealing with veneer woods, much of a species’ reputation and value are derived from its perceived beauty. While the name may be lesser known, kosipo is a wood in good company, and if by chance a particular piece has attractive grain patterning, its relative obscurity ought not dissuade potential buyers.

Images: Drag the slider up/down to toggle between raw and finished wood.

Identification: See the article on Hardwood Anatomy for definitions of endgrain features.

Kosipo (endgrain 10x)

Kosipo (endgrain 1x)

Note: I believe the endgrain images above do not accurately represent this species, and I suspect that the source which provided me with this sample has incorrectly identified it—I currently suspect this is a sample of Khaya spp. These images are set to be updated with new sample.

Porosity: diffuse porous

Arrangement: primarily in radial multiples of two to three

Vessels: large to very large, few to very few; dark reddish brown deposits occasionally present

Parenchyma: diffuse-in-aggregates, unilateral, vasicentric, and banded

Rays: medium width, normal to wide spacing; rays are generally not visible without magnification

Lookalikes/Substitutes: There are a number of other commercial woods in the Meliaceae (mahogany) family that can bear a close resemblance to kosipo. The presence of parenchyma bands can help to differentiate between Khaya and Entandrophragma species, as Khaya typically will lack parenchyma bands altogether.

Notes: In contrast to sapele (E. cylindricum), kosipo lacks both the distinctive cedar-like scent and storied rays found in sapele. However, utile (E. utile) tends to have a fainter odor and can be difficult to separate from kosipo. Utile tends to have slightly more widely spaced parenchyma bands, also occurring in more broken or diagonal patterns. Additionally, ethanol extracts of both sapele and utile will fluorescence yellow under blacklight, while kosipo’s extracts will be non-fluorescent.^[2]Richter, H.G., and Dallwitz, M.J. 2000 onwards. Commercial timbers: descriptions, illustrations, identification, and information retrieval. In English, French, German, Portuguese, and Spanish. … Continue reading

> Hardwoods > Meliaceae > Entandrophragma > Related Species

Rosewood, Siamese
(Dalbergia cochinchinensis)

Restricted and Endangered Wood Species From CITES appendices to IUCN status, what you need to know about today’s wood situation.

Worldwide Woods, Ranked by Hardness Over 500 woods arranged into eight geographic regions and ranked by Janka hardness—all on one 24″ x 36″ poster.

WOOD! Identifying and Using Hundreds of Woods Worldwide All that makes The Wood Database unique, distilled into one potent book.

References[+]

References
↑1	Louppe, D., Oteng-Amoako, A. A., & Brink, M. (2008). Plant Resources of Tropical Africa 7 (1). Timbers 1 (p. 236). PROTA foundation.
↑2	Richter, H.G., and Dallwitz, M.J. 2000 onwards. Commercial timbers: descriptions, illustrations, identification, and information retrieval. In English, French, German, Portuguese, and Spanish. Version: 9th April 2019. delta-intkey.com

The post Kosipo appeared first on The Wood Database.

Musk Sandalwood

Eric — Tue, 20 Jun 2023 16:18:11 +0000

> Hardwoods > Malvaceae > Mansonia > gagei

DATA SOURCE(S): 1,37

Mansonia (Mansonia altissima)

Common Name(s): Musk sandalwood, Thai sandalwood, Burmese sandalwood

Scientific Name: Mansonia gagei

Distribution: Southeast Asia

Tree Size: 32-65 ft (10-20 m) tall,

1-2 ft (.3-.6 m) trunk diameter

Average Dried Weight: 58.7 lbs/ft³ (940 kg/m³)

Specific Gravity (Basic, 12% MC): .81, .94

Janka Hardness: 2,030 lb_f (9,040 N)*

Modulus of Rupture: 18,030 lb_f/in² (124.4 MPa)*

Elastic Modulus: 1,613,000 lb_f/in² (11.13 GPa)*

Crushing Strength: 8,710 lb_f/in² (60.1 MPa)*

*dried strength values estimated from green values

Shrinkage: No data available

More images | Identification

Color/Appearance: Heartwood tends to be medium to dark brown, sometimes with darker streaks. Wide sapwood is tan colored and is fairly well demarcated from the darker heartwood.

Grain/Texture: Grain is generally straight. Texture is fine and uniform.

Rot Resistance: No data available.

Workability: Musk sandalwood is easy to work with both hand and machine tools. It glues, turns, and finishes well.

Odor: Musk sandalwood has a distinct, pleasing odor. Wood shavings and sawdust is sometimes used for incense.

Allergies/Toxicity: There have been no health effects associated specifically with musk sandalwood, though this may be due to its relative obscurity. However, analyses of the heartwood has shown it contains a number of anti-microbial compounds,^[1]Tiew, P., Ioset, J. R., Kokpol, U., Chavasiri, W., & Hostettmann, K. (2003). Antifungal, antioxidant and larvicidal activities of compounds isolated from the heartwood of Mansonia gagei. … Continue reading^[2]Mongkol, R., & Chavasiri, W. (2016). Antimicrobial, herbicidal and antifeedant activities of mansonone E from the heartwoods of Mansonia gagei Drumm. Journal of Integrative Agriculture, 15(12), … Continue reading and the closely related Mansonia altissima has also been reported as a sensitizer, with the the most usual reactions including eye and skin irritation, though the wood dust also produces a wide range of other deleterious effects. See the articles Wood Allergies and Toxicity and Wood Dust Safety for more information.

Pricing/Availability: Not available outside its natural range, musk sandalwood is used on a very limited (and diminishing)^[3]Fragrant sandalwood, a natural fragrance worth preserving (2021, June 7). https://hkm.hrdi.or.th/Knowledge/detail/488 basis within its natural range.

Sustainability: This wood species is not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

Common Uses: Boxes and chests, turned objects, carvings, and other small specialty wood items. Shavings and sawdust extracts are also used to make incense and perfume.

Comments: Musk sandalwood is sometimes confused with or sold interchangeably with Indian sandalwood (Santalum album) as well as other Santalum species. However, these sandalwoods are in the Santalaceae family and are not closely related to musk sandalwood, which is in the Malvaceae (mallow) family. Additionally, the heartwood of these woods contain different characteristic chemical compounds—santalol for Santalum species, and mansonone G for Mansonia gagei.^[4]Narakornwit, W., Sukwattanasinit, T., Wangwattana, B., Srisopon, S., Burana-osot, J., & Sotanaphun, U. (2018). Discrimination of Botanical Origin of Chan-thet, Chan-hom, Chan-chamot, Chan-khao … Continue reading

Images: Drag the slider up/down to toggle between raw and finished wood.

There are currently no pictures of this exact wood species, but a similar species within the Mansonia genus is being substituted (M. altissima). If you’d like to contribute a wood sample of this specific species to be photographed, please use the contact form.

Do you have images of projects made from this wood species? You can submit them to me here.

Identification: See the article on Hardwood Anatomy for definitions of endgrain features.

Mansonia (endgrain 10x)

Mansonia (endgrain 1x)

Porosity: diffuse porous

Arrangement: usually in radial multiples of two to four pores

Vessels: medium, few to numerous

Parenchyma: diffuse-in-aggregates

Rays: narrow width, normal spacing; rays generally not visible without magnification

Lookalikes/Substitutes: Can be confused with Santalum species if being sold as sandalwood. However, the pores in Santalum species are exclusively solitary. By contrast, it is very common for Mansonia gagei to have pores in radial multiples of two to four pores.

Notes: Storied structures present.

> Hardwoods > Malvaceae > Mansonia > Related Species

Rosewood, Siamese
(Dalbergia cochinchinensis)