Alexa imperatricis
Haiari
Family: Leguminosae
Other Common Names: Haiariballi (Guyana).
Distribution: Found in the Venezuelan Guiana, Guyana, Surinam, and the Brazilian Amazon region. Often dominant on the light-colored sands of the northwest and upper Mozaruni district and the Pakaraima Mountains in Guyana.
The Tree
Unbuttressed, well formed, with small oval crowns. Grows to 36 in. in diameter and 100 ft high on favorable sites, but are usually 20 to 24 in. in diameter and less than 100 ft high. The bole is cylindrical and often 70 ft long.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood brownish yellow but occasionally somewhat darker; not sharply differentiated from the light yellow to grayish-yellow sapwood, 3 to 4 in. wide. Luster is medium to low; generally straight grained; rather coarse textured; odorless and tasteless when dry.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) reported to be 0.46 to 0.55 in Guyana; 0.41 in the Venezuelan Guiana. Air-dry density about 32 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (1-in. standard)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
12% (24) 10,590 1,580 5,620
Janka side hardness is 690 lb and the Forest Products Laboratory toughness is 118 in.-lb (5/8-in. specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: Lumber has a marked tendency to collapse during seashue, darkening somewhat on exposure, not sharply demarcated from sapwood. Texture medium to coarse; luster medium to high; grain interlocked and irregular; with mild to distinct scent and taste of cumarin or vanilla; rather waxy appearance and feel.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) averages about 0.55; 0.43 reported from Peru. Air-dry density range about 38 to 47 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First set of data based on the 2-in. standard, second set the 2-cm standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
14%(2) 10,715 1,363 6,100
Green (30) 9,880 1,343 4,670
15% dry weight/green volume) 0.86; air-dry
density 66 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (2-cm standard)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (30) 22,200 2,370 10,100
15% 26,900 12,600
12% (42) 29,290 2,595 14,100
Janka side hardness 3,840 lb. Amsler toughness 680 in.-lb at 15% moisture content
(2-cm specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: Dries slowly with little warp but does tend to check and
split in kiln- drying, particularly in thicker dimensions. Kiln schedule T8-B3
is suggested for 4/4 stock and T5-B1 for 8/4. Shrinkage green to ovendry: radial
4.6ost locations the tree
will grow under varying rainfall and soil conditions.
The Tree
Evergreen, unbuttressed, moderate-sized trees; diameters of 20 to 28 in., heights
of 90 to 120 ft, and clear boles 60 to 70 ft long are not uncommon.
The Wood
General Characteristics: The narrow sapwood is pale brown to grayish yellow and
usually clearly demarcated from the yellowish-brown to dark reddish-brown
heartwood. Bands of light colored parenchyma tissue give this wood a distinctive
figure. Luster rather low; without distinctive odor or taste when dry; texture
very coarse; grain only moderately irregular.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.64, air-dry
density 45 to 80 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (2-in. standard)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
12% (44) 20,870 2,640
12% (24) 17,680 2,442 9,130
Janka side hardness about 1,600 lb air dry.
Drying and Shrinkage: The wood air-seasons at a moderate rate with little
degrade. Sapwood, during early stages of drying, is susceptible to discoloration
by sap-stain fungi. Movement of seasoned wood is rather low. Shrinkage green to
ovendry: radial 4.6%; tangential 9.8%; volumetric 12.5%.
Working Properties: Angelin saws and works fairly well except that it is
difficult to plane to a smooth surface because of the alternating bands of hard
and soft (parenchyma) tissue. The wood works well in the lathe, holds nails and
screws well, and glues satisfactorily. Polishes and varnishes well after
filling.
Durability: Heartwood is resistant to attack by decay fungi and insects, but is
only moderately resistant to dry-wood termites. Sapwood is highly vulnerable to
power-post beetle attack.
Preservation: Heartwood difficult to treat by both hot and cold bath and
pressure-vacuum systems. Absorptions are considerably less than 6 pcf with poor
penetration. Permeability of sapwood is also low.
Uses: The wood is used locally for heavy construction, crossties, house framing,
and exterior siding. Other suggested uses are turnery, furniture and cabinet
work, parquet flooring, and decorative veneer.
Additional ReadIng (24), (44), (46), (72)
Aniba spp.
Louro
Family: Lauraceae
Other Common Names: Many species of the Lauraceae may be grouped here, but most
are poorly defined botanically. Comino real (Colombia), Silverballi (Guayana),
Moena amarilla (Peru), Coto (Bolivia), Louro rosa, Pau rosa (Brazil).
Distribution: Found throughout the Guianas and the Amazon region but also in the
Pacific coastal areas of Colombia.
The Tree
Often attains a height of 100 ft with diameters up to 30 in.; clear bole lengths
of 55 to 75 ft are obtained.
The Wood
General Characteristics: The woods are typically yellowish with a greenish hue
when fresh, becoming brown or olive on exposure. Narrow sapwood light yellowish.
Luster medium to high; grain straight to interlocked; texture fine to medium;
spicy odor, taste may or may not be distinctive.
Weight: Woods range from rather light to moderately heavy. Basic specific gravity
(ovendry weight/green volume) often between 0.55 and 0.65. Air-dry density 40 to
50 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (2-in. standard)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (74) 13,250 2,170 6,560
12% 19,030 2,570 10,010
Janka side hardness 1,160 lb green and 1,470 lb dry. Forest Products Laboratory
toughness 176 in.-lb, average for green and air-dry material (5/8-in. specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: Moderately difficult to air-season, dries at a moderate
rate, warp and checking are slight. No kiln schedules available. Shrinkage green
to ovendry: radial 4.7%; tangential 7.0%; volumetric 12.1%.
Working Properties: Easy to work with hand and machine tools and dresses to a
smooth surface to give a satiny sheen.
Durability: The timber has an excellent reputation for resistance to decay.
Laboratory tests also indicate heartwood very durable to both white-rot and
brown-rot fungi.
Preservation: No information available but heartwood is known for its high
resistance to moisture absorption and is comparable to teak in this respect.
Uses: Esteemed for high grade furniture, turnery, inlay work. Also favored for
boat building, durable construction, and millwork. The wood of Aniba rosaeodora
is distilled for its fragrant oil used in the perfume industry.
Additional Reading (56), (71), (74)
Apeiba spp.
Duru
Family: Tiliaceae
Other Common Names: Peine de mico (Mexico), Burillo (Nicaragua), Corcho
(Colombia), Cortezo (Panama), Alastioelan, Borredaballi (Surinam), Maqui-sapa
(Peru), Cortica, Gargauba (Brazil).
Distribution: The genus has a wide range in tropical America with the center of
distribution in northern South America; found in the West Indies, southern
Mexico, Central America, and southward to Brazil and Peru.
The Tree
Small to medium-sized trees (A. tibourbou) or large canopy emergents to 120 ft
(A. aspera).
The Wood
General Characteristics: Sapwood and heartwood pale brown to oatmeal color no
distinction between them; texture medium to coarse; grain straight; not highly
lustrous; no distinctive odor or taste. Wood has bands of soft cottony material
that may be sporadic in occurrence.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) is very variable due
to the irregular bands of soft tissue-0.12 to 0.27; air-dry density 9 to 21 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (2-in. standard)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
12% (44) 4,000 670
12% (21) 5,950 380 3,040
Janka side hardness about 250 lb for dry material.
Drying and Shrinkage: The wood is reported to be very easy to season with no
drying defects. No kiln schedules ava7-->The Tree
The mature trees are from 80 to 120 ft tall, with long clear boles. Diameters up
to 60 in. are reported. Crown is flat with upturned limbs.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Sapwood is yellowish; the heartwood of various shades
of brown, often with bright red streaks. Mostly straight grained and of uniform
texture without prominent alternating bands of early- and latewood. The wood has
no distinctive odor.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) averages about 0.45.
Air-dry density commonly 30 to 40 pcf, averaging 34.
Mechanical Properties: (2-in. standard)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (42) 7,540 1,280 4,180
12% 14,210 1,510 7,980
Green (30) 8,650 1,550 3,810
15% 12,400 5,990
Janka side hardness reported to be 560 lb green and 780 lb at 12% moisture
content. Amsler toughness 130 in.-lb at 15% moisture content (2-cm specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: Parana pine is reported to be more difficult to season than
most softwoods, darker colored material is prone to distortion and splitting and
dries more slowly. Piles should be weighted to minimize warp. Kiln schedule T3-
D2 is suggested for 4/4 stock and T3-01 for 8/4 stock. Movement of seasoned wood
is rated as medium. Shrinkage green to ovendry: radial 3.8%; tangential 7.3%;
volumetric 11.6%.
Working Properties: The wood can be worked easily by hand and machine tools and
dresses to a smooth finish. If compression wood is present
Distribution: The species placed in this group are found in Mexico, through
Central America and into the high forests on moist terra firma in the lower
Amazon region, including the Guianas.
The Tree
Large canopy tree; unbuttressed; up to 120 ft high, with diameters 24 to 36 in.;
straight boles often clear to two-thirds of total tree height.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood bright orange red to reddish brown when
freshly cut becoming light pinkish brown or pale yellowish brown upon exposure
and drying. Sapwood narrow, white to yellowish, becoming darker on exposure and
then not clearly differentiated from the heartwood. Grain straight to irregular;
texture medium, uniform; without pronounced odor or taste when dry.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) averages 0.70 to
0.80; air-dry density about 53 to 64 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First set of values based on the 2-in. standard, the
second on the 1-in. standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (74) 14,100 2,500 6,650
12% 20,790 2,760 11,110
12% (24) 29,170 3,894 14,480
Janka side hardness for material from Belize was 1,820 lb air-dry, wood from
Venezuela tested 3,080 lb. Forest Products Laboratory toughness for Belize
timber was 153 in.-lb average for green and air-dry material and 284 in.-lb for
the Venezuelan wood (5/8-in. specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: Not difficult to air season but should be dried at a
moderate rate to avoid both end- and surface checking. In Surinam 4/4 stock was
kiln dried without any difficulties using schedule similar to T7-B3. Shrinkage
green to ovendry for Belize material: radial 5.2%; tangential 8.7%; volumetric
14.3%. Volumetric shrinkage about 19% for wood from Guyana and Venezuela.
Working Properties: The wood is reported to machine well and rates fair to
excellent in all operations; finishes smoothly and takes a high polish.
Durability: Heartwood is rated very durable in its resistance to both white-rot
and brown-rot fungi (Belize source). However, field trials in Venezuela indicate
only moderate durability.
Preservation: Heartwood is reported to absorb over 6 pcf of preservative oils
using either a hot and cold bath treatment or a pressure-vacuum system;
penetration was deep and uniform (test specimens were 20 in. long and not end
coated).
Uses: Interior work, paneling, furniture, flooring, turnery, heavy construction,
railway crossties, and boat framing.
Additional Reading (17), (24), (72), (74es: (2-cm standard)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (42) 11,460 1,204 5,770
12% 12,760 1,436 8,250
Green (30) 12,760 1,338 6,020
15% 15,024 7,880
Janka side hardness reported to be 1,580 lb for green wood and 1,732 lb at a
moisture content of 12%. Amsler toughness is 206 in.-lb at a moisture content of
15% (2-cm specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: The wood dries with little checking or splitting, but some
warp may develop. Kiln schedule T6-D2 is suggested for 4/4 stock and schedule T3-ions from Mexico and Central America through to Colombia, Venezuela, Brazil,
and Ecuador.
The Tree
Attains diameters of 24 to 40 in. or more and a maximum height of 120 ft. Except
for narrow buttress flanges 4 to 6 ft tall, it has a clear cylindrical trunk for
two-thirds or more of its height. The logs are typically sound throughout.
The Wood
General Characteristics: When fresh, the heartwood is russet brown, orange brown,
or reddish brown to red with narrow to wide irregular stripes of medium to very
dark brown. After exposure it becomes brown, red, or dark reddish brown with
nearly black stripes. The dingy grayish or brownish-white sapwood, 2 to 4 in.
wide, is sharply demarcated. Grain variable, straight to roey; texture fine to
medium, uniform; no distinctive odor or taste. The wood often has a striking
figure caused by irregular dark longitudinal bands.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) averages 0.84 for
timber from Honduras and Venezuela; material from Brazil and Colombia averages
0.75. Average air-dry density is about 60 pcf from these four sources.
Mechanical Properties: (First set of values based on 2-in. standard; second set
based on 2-cm standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (74) 12,140 1,940 6,580
12% 16,620 2,230 10,320
Green (30) 17,170 2,000 8,930
15% 19,670 11,100
Janka side hardness 1,910 lb for green material and 2,160 lb for dry. Forest
Products Laboratory toughness average for green and dry material from Honduras
and Venezuela is 139 in.-lb (5/8-in. specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: Moderately difficult to season. Some crook and bow
accompanied by a slight tendency to twist, checking slight. Air-dries at a fast
to moderate rate. A kiln schedule similar to T3-C2 has been suggested. Shrinkage
green to ovendry: radial 4.0%; tangential 7.6%; volumetric 10.0%; slightly higher
for Brazilian material.
Working Properties: it is not difficult to work in spite of its high density,
finishes very smoothly, and takes a high polish. The wood weathers well and is
highly resistant to moisture absorption. It is reported to be difficult to glue.
Durability: Laboratory tests indicate the heartwood to be very durable in
resistance to both white-rot and brown-rot organisms. These results substantiate
the reputed high durability of this species.
Preservation: Using either hot and cold bath or pressure-vacuum systems, sapwood
absorbs only 2 to 4 pcf of pF0-->
General Characteristics: Unseasoned heartwood is yellow, often streaked with
brown, becoming lustrous golden-brown to russet on exposure. Sapwood is narrow,
sharply demarcated, pale yellow to yellowish white. Grain usually interlocked
resulting in a rather broad stripe; texture medium to coarse, moderately
uniform; odor and taste not distinctive when seasoned.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) averages 0.68. Air-
dry density averages 50 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (2-in. standard)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (74) 14,510 2,300 7,900
12% 20,050 2,580 11,560
Janka side hardness 1,670 lb for green wood and 1,730 lb for dry. Forest Products
Laboratory toughness average for green and dry material is 196 in.-lb (5/8-in.
specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: The wood air-seasons at a moderate rate with very little
tendency to warp or check. No kiln schedules are available. Shrinkage green to
ovendry: radial 5.2%; tangential 6.6%; volumetric 10.2%. Volumetric shrinkage is
exceptionally low for a wood of this density.
Working Properties: Easy to saw and finishes smoothly.
Durability: Heartwood is reported to be very durable when exposed to either
white-rot or brown-rot fungi; slightly resistant to marine borers. Weathering
characteristics are considered poor.
Preservation: Heartwood is highly resistant to moisture absorption, comparable
to teak in this respect, suggesting poor treatability.
Uses: Wood used locally for general building purposes, heavy construction,
furniture, boat construction. Because of its high resilience, iand 0.65 for Argentinian material. Air-dry density averages
about 50 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (2-cm standard)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (30) 15,170 1,665 6,320
15% 19,870 8,535
Amsler air-dry toughness 581 in.-lb (2-cm specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: Can be dried without excessive degrade. Kiln schedule T6-C3
is suggested for 4/4 stock, and schedule T5-C2 for 8/4. Shrinkage green to
ovendry: radial 4.6%; tangential 8.8%; volumetric 13.4%.
Working Properties: Limited information suggests that the wood can be sawn and
worked without undue difficulty. It is nonsiliceous and nonresino up to 160 ft; excellent form. The tree is highly valued for its
seeds, the Brazil nuts of commerce.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood is uniform pinkish brown becoming light
chestnut brown after exposure to light. Sapwood is about 2 to 4 in. thick, pale
yellowish brown, sharply demarcated from heartwood. Texture rather coarse to
medium; luster medium; grain typically interlocked; odor and taste not
distinctive.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) averages 0.59. Air-
dry density 44 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (2-in. standard)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (74) 9,740 1,610 4,530
12% 14,680 1,760 6,890
Janka side hardness 940 lb green and 1,150 lb air dry. Forest Products Laboratory
toughness average for green and dry material is 143 in.-lb (5/8-in. specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: The wood air-dries rapidly with very little degrade. Warp
and checking are slight with a minimum of case-hardening. No kiln-drying data
available. Shrinkage green to ovendry: radial 3.9%; tangential 8.3%; volumetric
11.2%. Has a very low rate of moisture absorption.
Working Properties: The wood is moderately difficult to work, glues readily, and
finishes smoothly. Exudations of gum tend to clog saws in cutting green
material. Moderately easy to cut into smooth tight veneer of uniform thickness.
Durability: Laboratory tests indicate heartwood is very durable to durable in
resistance to white-rot and brown-rot fungi. The wood displays good weathering
characteristics.
Preservation: Low rates of moisture awhat irregular bole; generally buttressed. Trunk and larger branches armed
with hard sharp prickles.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood is uniform pale pinkish or pinkish brown when
freshly cut, becoming light to dark reddish brown on exposure; sharply
demarcated from yellowish sapwood. Grain straight to slightly interlocked;
texture medium; luster rather low. Heartwood without distinctive odor but
sometimes with a slightly astringent taste.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) averages 0.45. Air-
dry density about 34 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (2-in. standard)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (74) 7,560 1,260 3,440
12% 10,490 1,400 5,660
12% (71) 12,110 6,480
Janka side hardness 650 lb for green material and 720 lb for dry. Forest Products
Laboratory toughness average for green and dry material is 103 in.-lb (5/8-in.
specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: Air-seasons very slowly, required almost a year to dry 8/4
stock to a moisture content of 20%. Warp and checking slight. Shrinkage green
to ovendry: radial 3.4%; tangential 6.2%; volumetric 10.0%.
Working Properties: The wood has been reported as easy to work, finishing
smoothly; also easy to nail.
Durability: The heartwood is rated as durable in its resistance to white-rot
fungi, very durable in resistance to brown rots. Susceptible to attack by both
dry-wood and subterranean termites. Good resistance to marine borers reported
in Panama waters.
Presentation: Heartwood is very difficult to treat with very poor absorption and
penetration. Sapwood can absorb 10 to 20 pcf of preservative using either hot
and cold bath or pressure systems; penetration though is irregular.
Uses: Used locally for general construction, interior finish, millwork, furniture
stock, veneer and plywood, particleboard, and pulp and paper products.
Additional Reading (56), (71), (74)
Bowdichia spp.
Sucupira
Family: Leguminosae
Other Common Names: Alcornoque (Venezuela), Sapupira, Sucupira parda (Brazil).
Distribution: B. nitida occurs in the forests of the Rio Negro and lower Amazon
region. B. virgilioides has a greater range from Venezuela and the Guianas to
southeastern Brazil.
The Tree
On favorable sites it is a medium-sized to large tree, up to 150 ft high and
diameter to 4 ft. Over part of its range it is a savanna tree of small size and
poor form.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood dull chocolate to reddish brown, with
parenchyma striping; sharply demarcated from whitish sapwood. Luster low;
texture coarse with harsh feel; grain irregular and interlocked; without
distinctive odor or taste.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) averages 0.74. Air-
dry density about 56 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (2-cm standard)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (30) 18,150 2,270 10,140
15% 20,450 11,560
Air-dry Amsler toughness 396 in.-lb (2-cm specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: No information on drying characteristics. A kiln schedule
similar to T5-B2 has been suggested. Sp>
Trees reach a height of 120 ft, with straight cylindrical boles clear to 75 ft;
diameters may range up to 30 to 40 in.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Both sapwood and heartwood a uniform yellowish white;
wood around knots and other defects may be a distinct red. Texture is fine to
medium; grain is straight to irregular and shallowly interlocked; luster low;
without distinctive odor or taste.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) very variable with
species ranging between 0.55 to 0.72. Air-dry density from 45 to 65 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (2-in. standard)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green(18) 17,610 1,850
12% (63) 16,050 1,850
12% (71) 16,610 8,870
Janka side hardness ranges between 1,340 lb and 1,700 lb dry.
Drying and Shrinkage: Easy to moderately difficult to air-dry, tendency to twist.
No information on kiln-drying. Shrinkage green to ovendry: 5.1% radial; 9.4%
tangential; 15.4% volumetric.
Working Properties: Reported to be easy to moderately difficult to machine.
Because of its density and silica content of 0.68%, proper cutters should be
selected. Figured wood is sliced for face veneers without difficulty.
Durability: Durability is low, vulnerable to attack by white-rot and brown-rot
fungi. Particularly susceptible to insect attack because of abundant starch.
Preservation: No information available.
Uses: General construction work, flooring, furniture, cabinet work, veneers, and
tool handles. Cooked seeds of B. alicastrum are edible.
Additional Reading (15), (17), (5 Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (7) 8,490 1,940 4,490
12% 14,310 2,390 8,220
Janka side hardness 603 lb for green material and 903 lb for air dry.
Drying and Shrinkage: The lumber air-seasons rapidly and easily with little or
no degrade. However, material containing tension wood will be subject to warp.
Kiln schedule T5-C3 has been suggested for 4/4 stock. A faster schedule was
developed that can dry this wood to 7 percent moisture content in 6 to 8 days
(51). Shrinkage green to ovendry: radial 3.9%; tangential 7.8%.
Working Properties: The wood is easy to machine. However, tension wood is
sometimes prevalent and this will cause fuzzy grain and burning of saws due to
pinching. Takes stains and finishes readily; presents no gluing problems.
Durability: The wood is vulnerable to attack by stain and decay fungi as well as
insects.
Preservation: Reported to be treatable, but no detailed information is available.
Uses: Plywood, particleboard, fiberboard, carpentry, light construction,
furniture components, pulp and paper products, and moldings.
Additional Reading (7), (51), (56), (71)
Buchenavia capitata
Yellow Sanders
Family: Combretaceae
Other Common Names: Granadillo (Puerto Rico), Almendro (Colombia), Amarillo,
Olivo negro (Venezuela), Mirindiba, Periquiteira (Brazil).
Distribution: West Indies, Panama, and South America from Venezuela to French
Guiana, Brazil, and Bolivia. Several related species are found in the Amazon
region.
The Tree
Grows to a height of 60 to 80 ft and 2 to 4 ft in diameter; has rather large
buttresses, but has good log form above them.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood yellowish brown when freshly cut becoming
yellow to golden brown usually with a gray or olive hue upon exposure; sapwood
light yellow brown. Grain more or less interlocked; texture medium to rather
coarse; luster high; with faint spicy odor and mildly bitter taste when green.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.63; air-dry
density 47 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (2-in. standard)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (74) 10,050 1,460 5,130
12% 12,970 1,650 7,440
Janka side hardness averages 1,220 lb for air-dry wood. FPL toughness average for
green and dry material is 123 in.-lb (5/8-in. specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: Lumber air-seasons rapidly with only a very small amount
of degrade in the form of slight bow and twist. This species also performed well
in a solar dryer (5/4 stock). No kiln schedules are available. Shrinkage green
to ovendry: radial 2.8%; tangential 5.7%; volumetric 8.6%. Very low values for
a wood of this density.
Working Properties: The wood machines with moderate difficulty because of its
hardness, but it produces good surfaces in all operations even though some
tearing may result from irregular grain. Performs well in spindle carving. Easy
to finish. Rated as fair in steam-bending characteristics.
Durability: Heartwood reported as fairly resistant to decay and to attack by
termites and rated as very resistant to attack by dry-wood termites. The wood has
little resistance to marine borers. The wood weathers well. Heartwood is
relatively high in resistance to moisture absorption. Sapwood highly vulnerable
to powder-post beetle attack.
Preservation: Sapwood treatability with oil- or water-based preservatives is
rated very low; absorptions can be greatly improved by incising. Heartwood
impermeable.
Uses: An attractive furniture wood and suggested for decking, planking, and
framing in boat construction; exterior and interior flooring; decorative veneers;
turning; wood tanks. The wood has many characteristics similar to white oak and
teak.
Additional Reading (45), (56), (65), (74)
Bucida buceras
Jucaro
Oxhorn Bucida
Family:Combretaceae
Other Common Names: Black-olive (Jamaica), Ucar, Gregre (Puerto Rico), Bois gri-
gri (Haiti), Grignon (French Guiana), Leertouwarsboom (Surinam).
Distribution: Upper Florida Keys, Bahamas, Cuba, Jamaica, Hispaniola, Puerto Rico
and Virgin Islands, and Leeward Islands to Guadeloupe in Lesser Antilles. Also
from southern Mexico to Panama and northern South America along the coasts of
Colombia, Venezuela, and the Guianas.
The Tree
A widely spreading timber and shade tree, medium to large sized, 30 to 60 ft high
and up to 3 ft in trunk diameter, sometimes to heights of 110 ft and diameters
of 5 ft, with erect cylindrical boles.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood yellowish to greenish-brown, olive hued; not
always sharply demarcated from yellowish- to light brown sapwood. Longitudinal
stripes are frequent as a result of roey grain; moderately fine to medium in
texture; very lustrous. Although green wood has a tarry odor, seasoned wood has
no characteristic odor or taste.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.93; air-dry
density 69 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (2-cm standard)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (39) 15,400 2,000
Janka side hardness 2,340 lb for green wood.
Drying and Shrinkage: The wood is moderately easy to season for a timber of high
density; only minor amounts of warping and checking occur. Shrinkage green to
ovendry is also low for its weight: radial 4.4%; tangential 7.9%; volumetric
12.2%. No kiln schedules available.
Working Properties: The wood is rather difficult to saw and machine with hand and
power tools because of its very high density. Very smooth finishes can be
obtained, however torn grain is common in planing.
Durability: Resistant to dry-wood termites and durable in ground contact but not
resistant to marine borers.
Preservation: Both sapwood and heartwood are resistant to impregnation with
preservatives.
Uses: Highly valued for posts, poles, railway crossties, and oth appearance and feel; mildly and pleasantly
scented when warmed.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 1.00; air-dry
density 78 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: No data available.
Drying and Shrinkage: Owing to its high density and the resinous nature of the
timber, the wood dries slowly and needs careful handling to avoid splitting;
also prone to ring shake. No shrinkage data available.
Working Properties: When seasoned, it is not easy to work either with machine or
hand tools but does turn well in the lathe.
Durability: Heartwood is very durable under exposure and will last indefinitely
in the ground.
Preservation: Not treatable.
Uses: Because of its high density and self-lubrication, has many uses similar to
that of Guaiacum but is not considered as suitable for propeller-shaft
bushings. Used as steps and collars for water turbines, mallet heads, pulley
wheels, brush backs, locally for railway crossties.
Additional Reading (54), (56), ( fungi, requiring rapid conversion and chemical control.
Shrinkage green to ovendry: radial 2.6%; tangential 4.2%; volumetric 7.3%.
Working Properties: The wood works easily with either hand or machine tools but
with some fuzziness and torn grain. The use of very sharp, thin cutting edges
and reduced feed rates is suggested. The wood has excellent resistance to screw-
splitting and holds nails firmly. Logs are reported to peel well on rotary lathes
without preheating.
Durability: The wood is not durable in ground contact and is vulnerable to
powder-post beetle and termite attack.
Preservation: Capable of good absorption using either oil- or waterborne
preservatives.
Uses: The timber is used for matchsticks, boxes, crates, house construction, and
general carpentry; also suggested for pattern and core stock. Manufactured into
a utility plywood in Mexico. Tree is used extensively as "live fencing;" also
yields an aromatic resin used as an incense and varnish.
Additional Reading (17), (46), (64)
Byrsonima coriacea var. spicata
and Byrsonima spp.
Serrette
Family: Malpighiaceae
Other Common Names: Golden spoon (British West Indies), Maricao (Puerto Rico),
Changugo (Mexico), Chaparro (Colombia), Candelo (Venezuela), Kanoaballi (Guyana),
Chupicara (Peru), Murici (Brazil).
Distribution: Throughout West Indies, Central America, Colombia, the Guianas,
Peru, Bolivia, and Brazil. Common in secondary forests and frequently on lands
degraded by farming.
The Tree
Generally may reach a height of 100 to 120 ft, with trunk diameters up to 3 ft.
Straight cylindrical bole free of buttresses, and clear to 60 to 70 ft.
The Wood
General CharacterIstIcs: Heartwood pale to dark reddish brown with a purplish
cast, sometimes with a grayish tint. Gray to reddish-brown sapwood somewhat
distinct from heartwood. Grain mostly straight or slightly interlocked; texture
moderately fine; medium luster; without distinctive odor or taste.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.61; air-dry
density 46 pcf.
Mechanical PropertIes: (2-cm standard)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (42) 12,200 1,570 5,800
12% 18,000 1,950 9,750
Janka side hardness 1,140 lb when green and 1,530 lb for air-dry wood. Forest
Products Laboratory toughness reported to be 132 in.-lb at 12% moisture content
(5/8-in. specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: The wood air-seasons fairly well, drying at a rather slow
to moderate rate; end and surface checking are slight but some tendency to warp.
Kiln schedule T6-D2 is suggested for 4/4 stock and T3-D1 for 8/4. Shrinkage green
to ovendry: radial 4.0%; tangential 8.2%; volumetric 12.2%.
Working Properties: The wood works fairly easily with both hand and power
tools; good to excellent surfaces are produced in all operations. Proper size
lead holes must be prebored before screws are driven or the wood splits rather
badly.
Durability: The wood is very susceptible to dry-wood termites and other wood-
destroying insects, only slightly resistant to decay fungi; no appreciable
resistance to marine borers.
Preservation: Heartwood and sapwood are both moderately resistant to
impregnation; good end penetration, however, suggests favorable response to
incising.
Uses: General carpentry, furniture and cabinet work, flooring, and turnery. It
has been suggested for plywood and veneer.
Additional Reading (22), (24), (42), (45)
Cabralea cangerana
Cangerana
Family: Meliaceae
Other Common Names: Cajarana, Pau de stribution: Chiefly Venezuela but also found in Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru.
The Tree
Mature trees are from 50 to 75 ft tail, with a well-formed trunk sometimes 36
in. in diameter, clear of branches for 35 ft.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood dark red to chocolate brown or nearly
black, usually with fine pencil-striping of parenchyma; sharply demarcated from
the yellowish- or pinkish-white sapwood. Luster medium to low; texture medium
to coarse; grain straight to very irregular; without distinctive odor or taste.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 1.05; air-dry
density 78 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: A heavy strong timber, but no technical data available on
mechanical properties.
Drying and Shrinkage: Requires care in seasoning, slow drying. With adequate
precautions, results are satisfactory. No shrinkage data available. Kiln
schedule T3-C2 is suggested for 4/4 stock and T3-C1 for 8/4eneral Characteristics: Heartwood varies in color from pink or yellowish pink
to brick red or rich reddish brown; sapwood 1 to 2 in. wide, lighter in color
and not always clearly differentiated from heartwood. Texture medium and fairly
uniform; grain generally interlocked; luster rather low to medium; odor and
taste not distinctive.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.51; air-dry
density 39 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First set of values based on 2-in. standard, second set
of values based on 2-cm standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (75) 10,490 1,590 4,560
12% 14,640 1,830 6,910
Green (22) 11,100 1,470 5,490
12% 15,700 1,710 8,730
Janka side hardness 890 lb for green wood and 1,150 lb for dry. Forest Products
Laboratory toughness average for green and dry material is 180 in.-lb (5/8-in.
specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: The wood is moderately difficult to air-season, drying rate
varies considerably, warp is moderate to severe, surface checking is slight.
Kiln schedule T2-D4 is suggested for 4/4 stock and T2-D3 for 8/4. Shrinkage from
green to ovendry: radial 4.6%; tangential 8.0%; volumetric 13.6%. Movement in
service is rated as medium.
Working Properties: The wood is fairly easy to work and generally yields smooth
surfaces on straight-grained material but generates torn and chipped grain when
interlocked; rates below average in planing, turning, and boring. Rotary cutting
of this species for veneer has not been satisfactory.
to medium-sized tree usually 40 to 50 ft high but may reach heights of
90 ft and diameters to 30 in. Boles usually straight and free of branches for
half the total tree height.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood ranges from light brown to oatmeal color
and is sometimes grayish. Sapwood is lighter in color and merges gradually with
the heartwood. Luster is low to medium; texture, fine and uniform; grain,
straight to interlocked; odor and taste, not distinctive.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.67; air-dry
density 51 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (2-in. standard)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (76) 14,290 1,930 6,200
12% 22,300 2,270 9,670
Janka side hardness 1,630 lb when green and 1,940 lb at 12% moisture content.
Forest Products Laboratory toughness average for green and dry material is 252
in.-lb (5/8-in. specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: Some tendency to warp when dried as small squares (for
archery bows); also some surface and end checking occurs in plank stock. Kiln
schedule T2-C2 is suggested for 4/4 lumber and T2-C1 for 8/4. Shrinkage green
to ovendry: radial 4.8%; tangential 8.6%; volumetric 13.2%.
Working Properties: The wood is difficult to saw and moderately difficult to work
in planing and boring; no appreciable dulling effect on cutters. Machined
surfaces are very smooth; takes a glossy polish.
Durability: The wood is generally regarded as lacking appreciable resistance to
attack by decay fungi. Pure-culture laboratory tests indicate high durability
when exposed to a brown-rot fungus but only moderate durability with respect to
deterioration by a white-rot fungus. Reported to be highly resistant to marine
borers.
Preservation: No information available.
Uses: Has been used in the manufacture of archery bows and fishing rods. Suitable
for tool handles and turnery and is used for shuttles and picker sticks and
other textile manufacturing items.
Additional Reading (22), (56), (75)
Campnosperma panamensis
Sajo
Orey
Family: Anacardiaceae
Other Common Names: Not known.
Distribution: Reported in the Atlantic lowlands of northern Panama, adjacent
Costa Rica, and Pacific coastal regions of Colombia; forms almost pure stands
in these marshy areas.
The Tree
Medium-sized trees 40 to 60 ft high with bole diameters of 10 to 15 in.,
occasionally up to 24 in.; well-formed stems that are often clear to 30 ft.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood white to grayish buff sometimes with a
yellowish tint; no marked contrast with the sapwood. Somewhat silvery luster;
fine textured; straight grained; distinctive odor when fresh, but without
characteristic odor or taste when dry.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.33; air-dry
density 25 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (2-in. standard)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (7) 5,080 1,070 2,660
12% 8,700 1,480 5,200
Janka side hardness 336 lb for green material and 425 lb at 12% moisture content.
Drying and Shrinkage: The lumber air-seasons rapidly with little or no tendency
to warp or to Trinidad and from Honduras
south through Central America, the Guianas, and into Brazil, Colombia, and Peru,
and the overflow delta lands of the Orinoco in Venezuela; often occurs in pure
stands; a lowland species but also at high altitudes along rivers.
The Tree
Commonly 80 to 100 ft in height with diameters 2 to 3 ft; sometimes attain
diameters up to 6 ft and heights of 170 ft. Buttresses are low, leaving a clear
bole length of 50 ft or more; main stems are straight and of good form.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood is a light salmon to reddish brown when
fresh, becoming darker when dry, color very variable; sapwood is pinkish turning
pale brown or grayish, not always sharply demarcated from heartwood. Texture
varies from fine to coarse; luster ranges from low to high; grain usually
straight but sometimes roey; odor and taste lacking.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.56; air-dry
densIty 41 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First set of values based on 2-in. standard; second set,
1-in. standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (74) 11,110 1,560 4,930
12% 15,620 1,850 7,900
12% (24) 15,500 2,080 8,540
Janka side hardness 1,060 lb for green material and 1,220 lb at 12% moisture
content. Forest Products Laboratory toughness average for green and dry material
is 130 in.-lb (5/8-in specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: Experience is variable, reported to air-season and kiln-dry
rather slowly with a tendency to split, check, and collapse but without serious
bowing or cupping; also reported to be only moderately difficult to air-dry with
only slight checking and warp. Kiln schedule T3-C2 is suggested for 4/4 stock
and T3-C1 for 8/4. Shrinkage green to ovendry: radial 3.1%; tangential 7.6%;
volumetric 10.4%. Movement in service is rated small.
Working Properties: Can be worked with machine and hand tools; reported to be
somewhat harder to machine than mahogany; has a tendency to split when nailed;
glues and screws well; peels well for veneer.
Durability: Very variable, laboratory tests report both high and low resistance
to brown- and white-rot fungi; also variously reported to be resistant or poorly
resistant to decay in the ground. Reported to be very susceptible to dry-wood
termite attack; also vulnerable to powder-post beetle attack. Comparable to
mahogany in weathering properties.
Preservation: Absorption is low and penetration is poor in heartwood treated by
either pressure or nonpressure systems. with trunk diameters often
4 to 6 ft in diameter; boles are clear to 80 ft; large buttresses; well-formed
stems.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood reddish or purplish brown, sometimes with
dark streaks usually not sharply demarcated from the pale brown sapwood; luster
medium; texture medium; grain straight to interlocked; without distinctive odor
or taste.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.46; air-dry
density 35 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (2-cm standard)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
12% (42) 13,800 1,410 7,100
Green (30) 10,200 1,530 4,620
15% 12,500 6,320
Air-dry Janka side hardness 1,020 lb. Amsler air-dry toughness is 195 in.-lb (2-
cm specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: Air-dries rapidly with only a slight tendency to warp or
check. Kiln schedule T3-D2 is suggested for 4/4 stock and schedule T3-D1 for
8/4. Shrinkage green to ovendry: radial 2.8%; tangential 5.4%; volumetric 9.0%.
Reported to have good dimensional stability after manufacture.
Working Properties: Working properties generally satisfactory with only a slight
blunting effect on cutting edges; but species in this grouping are also reported
to cause rapid dulling of cutters. Silica is estimated to be in excess of 0.05%.
Veneers reported to be cut without difficulty.
Durability: Heartwood reported to be durable, particularly deeply colored
material; has good resistance to dry-wood termite attack.
Preservation: Heartwood is reported to be extremely resistant to preservative
treatment; sapwood isum to rather coarse; grain interlocked;
fresh material with a mild vinegary scent but without odor or taste when dry.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.67 to 0.76; air-
dry density 51 to 58 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (2-in. standard)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (74) 12,450 1,820 6,290
12% 17,060 2,160 8,410
Janka side hardness 1,720 lb for both green and dry material. Forest Products
Laboratory toughness average for green and dry material is 150 in.-lb (5/8-in.
specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: Air-dries at a slow rate, warping and checking develop but
only to a minor degree. Classified as moderately difficult to difficult to
season. No kiln schedules available. Shrinkage green to ovendry: radial 5.0%;
tangential 8.0%; volumetric 13.0%.
Working Properties: Reported as easy to moderately difficult to saw; rapid
dulling of cutting edges; radial faces difficult to finish smoothly because of
interlocked grain.
Durability: Heartwood rated as very durable in resistance to both brown-rot and
white-rot fungi; classified as resistant to dry-wood termites and moderately
resistant to marine borers.
Preservation: No data available on treatability. The wood is rated fair in its
resistance to weathering (based on laboratory exposure tests) which contradicts
its favorable reputation in the tropics.
Uses: General and marine construction, heavy flooring, railway crossties, boat
parts, furniture components, especially suitable where hardness and high wear
resistance are needed. Tree produces a large edible fruit which contains an oil-
produe "silver-grain" figure.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.50 to 0.60; air-
dry density 36 to 46 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (2-in. standard)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (46) 8,100 1,610 3,840
12% 11,200 1,820 6,730
Green (76) 10,670 2,300 4,280
12% 15,450 2,880 8,340
Janka side hardness 520 lb for green and 720 lb for air-dry material with basic
specific gravity of 0.50. Forest Products Laboratory toughness average for green
and dry material is 166 in.-lb (5/8-in. specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: The wood air-seasons rather slowly, degrade due to checking
and warp is slight. Kiln schedule T6-D2 is suggested for 4/4 stock and T3-D1 for
8/4. Shrinkage green to ovendry: radial 5.2%; tangential 11.1%; volumetric
17.5%. Movement of timber in service is rated as large.
Working Properties: Rated as fair to poor in most machining operations but also
reported to work easily with machine and hand tools. Machine-finished surfaces
lack luster and are harsh to the touch. Takes glue well and can be nailed
without splitting. Easy to cut into veneer.
Durability: Heartwood vulnerable to decay fungi and is rated as very susceptible
to attack by dry-wood termites. Sapwood also susceptible to attack by powder-
post beetles.
Preservation: Both heartwood and sapwood are easily impregnated with
preservatives using either pressure or open-tank processes.
Uses: General construction work where dimensional stability is not critical,
fiberboard, particleb (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.26 to 0.34, air-
dry density 20 to 26 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First set of data based on 2-in. standard; second set
based on 2-cm standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (6) 4,040 860 1,870
12% 6,490 1,090 3,490
Green (30) 6,100 1,210 3,240
15% 8,800 4,300
Janka side hardness 220 lb for green and 320 lb for dry material. Forest Products
Laboratory toughness 62 in.-lb at 12% moisture content (5/8-in. specimen). Both
these tests on wood with basic specific gravity of 0.26.
Drying and Shrinkage: The wood air-seasons rapidly but with moderate to severe
warp and little checking. The wood is also easy to kiln-dry without excessive
seasoning degrade. A modified schedule, T7-B6, is suggested for 4/4 stock and
a modified T5-B5 for 8/4(50). Shrinkage green to ovendry: radial 2.0% tangential
6.2%; volumetric 8.3%.
Working Properties: Seasoned wood is very easy to saw and machine compared with
green wood. Surfaces tend to tear and fuzz in shaping and turning but gives good
results in planing and sanding. Nails readily and holds screws well. Difficult
to finish with varnish or lacquer.
Durability: The wood is very susceptible to attack by decay fungi, termites, and
other insects. Prone to blue stain.
Preservation: If incised or where there is high end-grain exposure, the wood will
treat well using either pressure-vacuum systems or open tank.
Uses: Wood resembles North American black cottonwood in both density and
mechanical properties. Used for plywood core stock, particleboard, matchsticks,
boxes and crates, and excelsior. Neutral sulfite semichemical pulps were
converted into bond papers of excellent brightness and appearance.
Additional Reading (6), (30), (45), (50)
Cedrela spp.
Spanish-cedar
Cedro
Family: Meliaceae
Other Common Names: Cedro (Central and South America), Acajou rouge (French West
Indies), Care rouge (French Guiana), Ceder (Surinam).
Distribution: Cedrela occurs from Mexico to Argentina and is found in all
countries except Chile. Trees make their best growth on rich, well-drained humid
sites but may also compete favorably on drier hillsides; intolerant of water-
logged locations.
The Tree
Under favorable conditions will reach heights over 100 ft and diameters 3 to
6 ft above the substantial buttresses. Straight cylindrical boles clear for 40
to 60 ft.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood pinkish- to reddish brown when freshly cut,
becoming red or dark reddish brown, sometimes with a purplish tinge, after
exposure; sharply to rather poorly demarcated from the pinkish to white sapwood.
Grain usually straight, sometimes interlocked; texture rather fine and uniform
to coarse and uneven; luster medium to high and golden; distinctive cedary odor
usually pronounced, some specimens with bitter taste.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) very variable
ranging from 0.30 to 0.60, averaging about 0.40; air-dry density ranges from 23
to 47 pcf, averaging about 30 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First set of data based on 2-in. standard; second set 2-
cm standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi bore cleanly. Easy to cut into veneer but with some
tendency for wooly surfaces to occur; good nailing and gluing properties; stains
and finishes well but gums and oils sometimes are a problem in polishing.
Durability: Heartwood is rated as durable but there is some variability with
species; resistant to both subterranean and dry-wood termites. Low resistance
to attack by marine borers. Wood has excellent weathering characteristics.
Preservation: Heartwood is reported to be extremely resistant to preservation
treatments. Reports on treatability of sapwood are conflicting.
Uses: Wood is favored for millwork, cabinets, fine furniture, musical
instruments, boat building, patterns, sliced- and rotary-cut veneer, decorative
and utility plywoods, cigar wrappers, and cigar boxes. Volatile oils may
restrict use for some applications (e.g., clock cases).
Additional Reading (24), (30), (46), (74)
Cedrelinga catenaeformis
Cedro-Rana
Tornillo
Family: Leguminosae
Othe stock. Air-dry
density respectively 40 and 31 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (2-in standard)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (3) 7,600 1,377 3,610
Drying and Shrinkage: No data available on drying characteristics. Volumetric
shrinkage (green to ovendry): 11.8%.
Working Properties: Saws woolly but is easy to cut; can be finished smoothly.
Durability: Reported to be probably fairly durable; also reported to have good
weathering resistance.
Preservation: No data available.
Uses: General construction, furniture components.
Additional Reading (3),(56)
Ceiba pentandra
Ceiba
Silk-Cotton-tree
Kapok-tree
Family: BombacaceaeBasic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.25; air-dry
density 18 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (2-in. standard)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (73) 2,180 410 1,060
12% 4,330 540 2,380
15% (34) 3,980 2,490
Janka side hardness 220 lb for green wood and 240 lb for dry. Forest Products
Laboratory toughness average for green and dry material is 24 in.-lb (5/8-in.
specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: Air-dries rapidly with little warp or checking; also easy
to kiln-dry. Kiln schedule T10-D5S is suggested for 4/4 stock and schedule T8-
D4S for 8/4. Shrinkage green to ovendry: radial 2.1%; tangential 4.1%;
volumetric 7.7%. Movement in service is rated small.
Working Properties: The wood is easy to machine but not satisfactorily; sawed
surfaces are fuzzy; tears the grain in shaping, boring, turning, and mortising,
but gives excellent results in planing and sanding. Poor nail- and screw-holding
properties. Easy to peel into veneers.
Durability: Laboratory tests indicate nondurable to white-rot fungus attack but
durable to very durable when exposed to brown rot. Rated as extremely vulnerable
to decay when in ground contact, also very susceptible to insect attack. Logs
and lumber often discolored by sap-staining fungi.
Preservation: Easy to treat with good absorption and penetration using either
pressure- vacuum systems or open tank methods.
Uses: Plywood, packaging, lumber core stock, light construction, pulp and paper
products, also used locally for canoes and rafts. Floss on seeds (kapok)
harvested foain straight to irregular; some species without odor or taste,
others with distinctive odor and sometimes with perceptive taste.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) varies with species
from 0.61 to 0.69; air-dry density 46 to 53 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First set of data based on 2-cm standard, second set on
1-in. standard, and third on 2-in. standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (30) 14,200 1,500 5,900
15% 16,800 7,900
12% (24) 18,600 2,130 9,550
12% (44) 17,200 2,440
Janka side hardness 1,030 lb for dry wood. Amsler toughness 288 in.-lb at 15%
moisture content (2-cm specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: Reported to have a moderate drying rate with little to no
warp or checking. Kiln schedule T6-D2 is suggested for 4/4 stock of C.
ochroxylon and T3-D1 for 8/4. Shrinkage green to ovendry: radial 2.4%;
tangential 5.6%; volumetric 8.4%.
Working Properties: The wood is easy to machine with all tools; finishing very
smoothly but there may be some fuzzy grain on planing of radial surfaces.
Durability: The wood is reported to be highly resistant to attack by decay fungi,
termites and other insects, and marine borers (teredo).
Preservation: impregnation with wood preservatives is only moderate using
pressure-vacuum systems, absorption and penetration is negligible using the
open-tank method.
Uses: Heavy construction, railroad crossties, fine furniture and cabinet work,
flooring, ship components (planking, keel, decking, and trim), turnery,
decorative ve&F17-->The Wood
General Characteristics: Fresh heartwood is bright yellow, drying to golden
yellow, changing upon exposure to brown or russet, sometimes with a reddish
tinge; sharply demarcated from the nearly white sapwood. Luster high; texture
usually fine; grain variable, often interlocked; odor and taste lacking or not
distinctive.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.71 to 0.78; air-
dry density 52 to 60 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First set of data based on 2-in. standard, second on 2-cm
standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (74) 14,840 1,590 6,860
12% 19,560 2,180 11,080
Green (30) 20,000 1,920 9,700
15% 21,600 11,900
Janka side hardness 2,190 lb for green material and 2,380 lb at 12% moisture
content. Forest Products Laboratory toughness average for green and dry material
is 229 in.-lb (5/8-in. specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: Air-dries at a moderate to fast rate with only slight
checking and warping. No data on kiln-drying available but air-drying followed
by a mild kiln schedule is suggested. Despite its high density, the wood has
exceptionally low shrinkage. Shrinkage green to ovendry: radial 3.4%; tangential
5.4%; volumetric 7.8%.
Working Properties: The wood is somewhat difficult to work with hand and power
tools but finishes smoothly and glues well.
Durability: Heartwood very durable in resistance to both white-rot and brown-rot
fungi and also has excellent weathering characteristics. The heartwood is also
rated as highly resistant to dry-wood termites. Data on resistance to marine-
borer attack are conflicting.
Preservation: The heartwood is not responsive to preservation treatments; sapwood
should treat satisfactorily if incised.
Uses: Heavy construction, decking, planking, and framing for boats, exterior and
interior flooring, turnery, furniture parts, tool handles, railroad ties, and
wood tanks. Also contains the coloring maclurin long used as a yellowish-brown
or khaki dye.
Additional Reading (30), (41), (56), (74)
Clarisia racemosa
Oiticica
Amarela
Aji
Family: Moraceae
Other Common Names: Caraco, Aji, Arracacho (Colombia), Matapalo (Ecuador),
Chichillica (Peru), Guariuba, Oity (Brazil).
Distribution: Widely distributed in Brazil and extends into northeastern Peru,
the Serrania de San Lucas region of Colombia, and the Venezuelan Guianas; grows
scattered or in small clumps.
The Tree
Attains a height of 130 ft with well-formed nonbuttressed trunk sometimes 36 in.
in diameter and free of branches for 50 to 60 ft.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood bright yellow, becoming brown or russet, but
retaining a golden luster upon exposure; sharply defined from the thin white
sapwood. Texture medium to coarse; grain variable, often decidedly roey with
attractive figure; dry specimens without distinctive odor or taste.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) averages about 0.53;
air-dry density 40 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First set of data based on 2-cm standard, second on 1-in.
standard, and third on 2-in. standard.]
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (30) 10,400 1,150 5,350
15% 11,600
12% (24) 16,700 2,340 9,620
12% (21) 18,000 2,360 9,070
Janka side hardness averages about 1,400 lb for dry material. Forest Products
Laboratory toughness 159 in.-lb at 12% moisture content (5/8-in. specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: Air-dries rapidly. No data on degrade or on kiln schedules.
Shrinkage green to ovendry: radial 2.9%; tangential 6.1%; volumetric 9.0%.
Reported to have good stability when manufactured.
Working Properties: Easy to work and is rated fair to good in all machining
operations. Cross-grained material requires sharp tools to produce a smooth
surface; fresh wood saws wooly.
Durability: Tentative field trials in Venezuela indicate heartwood to be durable
and resistant to termite attack. Elsewhere the wood is rated not very durable in
ground contact.
Preservation:reaked with light
colored parenchyma bands. Grain is straight to irregular; texture medium to very
coarse; luster medium to dull; odorless and tasteless.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) averages from 0.80
to 0.97; air-dry density 60 to 75 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (2-in. standard)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
12% (20) 23,100 16,500
12% (21) 28,600 3,500 13,900
Janka side hardness at 12% moisture content 2,960 lb.
Drying and Shrinkage: Wood is moderately difficult to dry with a tendency to warp
and check. No data on kiln schedules available. Shrinkage ga southward to Argentina
and Paraguay. C. reticulata has wide distribution in the Amazon region and is the
source of copaiba balsam.
The Tree
May reach a height of 100 ft and a trunk diameter of 4 ft.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood reddish brown, variable often with a coppery
hue, and sometimes streaked; not very sharply demarcated from the pinkish gray
or nearly white sapwood. Luster rather silky and golden; grain usually straight;
texture medium; oily exudations sometimes present, the woods of all species
contain gum or oil canals. Dry material without distinctive odor or taste.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) varies with species
from 0.46 to 0.64; air-dry density 34 to 49 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First set of data based on the 2-in. standard, the second
on the 2-cm standard, and the third on the 1-in. standard.]
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (75) 12,980 2,270 6,070
12% 21,200 2,650 10,700
Green (30) 8,580 1,350 3,900
15% 11,300 5,980
12% (41) 12,900 6,500
Janka side hardness 1,390 lb for green material, 1,740 lb at 12% moisture
content. Forest Products Laboratory toughness average for green and dry material
is 204 in.-lb (5/8-in. specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: Reported to have a slow to moderate rate of drying. C
aromatica air-dried with bow being the only degrade. No information available on
kiln scties: (First set of data based on 2-in. standard; second set on
2-cm standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (19) 13,700 1,390
12% 15,700 1,580
Green (30) 13,700 1,760 8,500
15% 18,500 9,000
Janka side hardness 2,200 lb for air-dry material. Amsler toughness 340 in.-lb
at 15% moisture content (2-cm specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: The wood is difficult to dry; readily develops surface
checking and end splitting. Kiln schedule T6-D2 is suggested for 4/4 stock and
T3-D1 for 8/4. Shrinkage green to ovendry: radial 4.0%; ta 18 to 24 in.; in areas of optimum growth it attains diameters of 36
in. and heights of 120 ft. Narrow buttresses are commonly 6 ft or less in height.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood yellowish to brown, uniform or more or less
streaked and variegated; light colored material not clearly differentiated from
sapwood. Luster is medium to high, often rich and golden; texture very variable
from fine to coarse; grain usually straight to shallowly interlocked; dark-
colored specimens have spicy scent.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) varies with species
from 0.44 to 0.52; air-dry density 34 to 40 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (2-in. standard]
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (74) 9,050 1,280 4,040
12% 12,180 1,510 6,330
Janka side hardness averages about 910 lb for green material and about 1,000 lb
for dry. Forest Products Laboratory toughness ranged from 138 in.-lb to 195 in.,-
lb, averages for green and dry material (5/8-in. specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: The wood air-seasons rapidly with only slight warping and
checking. Kiln schedule T6-D2 is suggested for 4/4 stock and T3-01 for 8/4.
Shrinkage green to ovendry: radial 3.4%; tangential 7.1%; volumetric 9.2% (C.
alliodora). Holds in place well after manufacture.
Working Properties: The wood is easy to work and finishes smoothly; readily
glued.
Durability: The heartwood is rated as durable upon exposure to both white-rot and
brown-rot fungi but degree of durability appears to be related to the coloring
of the wood. Also reported to have good resistanca in Colombia. Found mostly in low areas.
The Tree
Total tree heights 60 to 80 ft, with trunk diameters of 20 to 24 in.; straight,
well-formed stems.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Wood cream colored or pale brown, often with a pinkish
tinge; no sharp demarcation between sapwood and heartwood. Grain fairly straight
to interlocked; texture medium; luster rather low to medium; odor and taste not
distinctive.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.50, air-dry
density 38 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First set of data based on 2-cm standard; second set
based on 2-in. standard).
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
12% (21) 16,700 9,280
12% (20) 15,900 7,100
Janka side hardness 980 lb at 12% moisture content.
Drying and Shrinkage: This wood is easy to both air-dry and kiln-dry with little
or no degrade due to warping or checking. No kiln schedules available. Shrinkage
green to ovendry: radial 3.9%; tangential 6.4%; volumetric 10.4%.
Working Properties: The wood is easy to work with all tools, however there is
some difficulty to generate smooth surfaces on quartersawn stock due to the
interlocked grain. Easy to nail and screw.
Durability: Natural durability is low and prone to attack by blue-stain fungi.
Preservation: No data available but suggested uses in Colombia indicate the wood
is responsive to preservation treatments.
Uses: Interior millwork, general construction, furniture components, veneer for
plywood, particleboard and fiberboard, boxes, and crates.
Additional Reure content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (74) 9,240 1,730 4,260
12% 13,520 1,800 7,460
12% (20) 17,200 8,650
15% (34) 14,200 1,730 7,600
Janka side hardness 880 lb at 12% moisture content and 740 lb for green material.
Forest Products Laboratory toughness average for green and dry material is 124
in.-lb (5/8)-in. specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: Wood has a moderate rate of drying with slight surface
checking and warp. No dry kiln schedule data available. Shrinkage green to
ovendry: radial 4.1%; tangential 7.3%; volumetric 11.3%.
Working Properties: The wood is rated fair to good in all machining operations.
High silica content in some species requires specially tipped cutters.
Durability: Considerable variability of heartwood resistance to decay fungi is
reported, from durable to nondurable. Some species show fair resistance to marine
borer attack.
Preservation: Heartwood and sapwood easily treated by both pressure and open tank
systems with good absorption and penetration.
Uses, General interior construction and carpentry work, boxes and crates,
furniture components, veneer and plywood, and railroad crossties (treated).
Additional Reading (20),(24), (34), (74)
M 150 273-21Mahot or Tauary (Couratari spp.) grows from Panama south to the
Brazilian Amazon. Trunk diameters may exceed 4 feet above the stout buttresses.
In tropical American moist forests, single species usually make up less than 5
percent of the stand volume.
Cupressus lusitanicatrength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
12% (27) 12,400 1,390 5,820
Green (66) 6,160 925 2,880
12% 10,270 1,020 5,380
Janka side hardness 340 lb for green material and 460 lb at 12% moisture content.
Drying and Shrinkage: Air-dries very rapidly with little or no end or surface
checking and only slight warp. Kiln schedule T10-D5S is suggested for 4/4 stock
and T8-D4S for 8/4. Shrinkage green to ovendry: volumetric 8.0%.
Working Properties: The wood is easy to work with hand and machine tools, easy
to nail, and stains and polishes well.
Durability: Reports on durability are conflicting.
Preservation: The heartwood is reported to be not treatable by the open-tank
process and to have an irregular response to pressure-vacuum systems. Treatment
may be improved considerably by incising.
Uses: Posts and poles, furniture components, and general construction.
Additional Reading (27), (56), (66)
Cybistax donnell-smithii
syn. Tabebuia donnell-smithii
Primavera
Family: Bignoniaceae
Other Common Names: Duranga (Mexico), San Juan (Honduras), Palo blanco
(Guatemala), Cortez, Cortez blanco (El Salvador).
Distribution: Southwestern Mexico, Pacific coast of Guatemala and El Salvador,
and north central Honduras. Occurs in mixed forests on well-drained limestone,
volcanic, or alluvial soils from sea level to an elevation of about 800 ft.
The Tree
Attains a height of 100 ft, commonly with trunk diameters of 2 to 3 ft,
occasionally 4. Bole is clear and smooth 24 to 40 ft.
The Wood
General Characteristics: The wood is cream colored, yellowish white to pale
yellowish brown, often more or less striped. Sapwood not clearly demarcated,
slightly paler than the heartwood. Grain straight to roey; texture medium to
rather coarse, uniform; luster fairly high; odorless and tasteless.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.40; air-dry
density 29 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (2-in. standard]<
lit>
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (74) 7,180 990 3,510
12% 9,530 1,040 5,600
Janka side hardness about 680 lb for both green and dry material. Forest Products
Laboratory toughness average for green and dry material is 75 in.-lb (5/8-in.
specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: Wood is easy to air-season, drying rapidly with no checking
and only slight warp. A modified kiln schedule T6-F3 is suggested for 4/4 stock
(68). Shrinkage green to ovendry: radial 3.1%; tangential 5.1%; volumetric 9.1%.
Holds its place well after manufacture.
Working Properties: The wood is easy to work in all operations even though there
may be considerable grain variation; finishes smoothly and acquires an attractive
polish. Produces a good quality veneer.
Durability: Laboratory tests indicate a variable resistance to both brown-rot and
white-rot fungi, similar to field observations. Weathering characteristics are
good.
Preservation: No data available on treatability.
Uses: Fine furniture, cabinet work, decorative veneers, and interior trim.
Additional Reading (35), (56), (68), (74)
Cynodendron spp.
and Chrysophyllum spp,
Caimito
Star-Apple
Family: Sapotaceae
Other Common Names: Caimitillo, Lechecillo (Puerto Rico), Canela (Mexico),
Caimito morado (Venezuela), Kokoritiballi (Guyana), Balata blanca (Peru),
Massaranduba-rana (Brazil), Aguay, Carne de Vaca (Argentina).
Distribution: Widely distributed in tropical and subtropical regions with various
species found in southern Mexico to Misiones, Argentina.
The Tree
Often small to medium-sized tree 35 to 65 ft high, but sometimes 75 to 100 ft;
trunk diameters up to 24 in. An attractive ornamental and shade tree widely
planted (Chrysophyllum cainito).
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood variable in color from pale brown or pinkish
to rather dark brown, with gradual transition to the sapwood. Luster rather low
to medium; texture fine to medium; grain fairly straight; odor and taste absent
or not distinctive. A silica content of over 0.84% is reported (C. maytenoides).
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) mostly from 0.60 to
0.90; air-dry density 50 to 70 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (1-in. standard)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
12% (41) 20,000 11,500
12% (24) 23,200 3,300 12,600
Forest Products Laboratory toughness at 12% moisture content 128 in.-lb (5/8-in.
specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: The wood air-dries somewhat slowly and air-drying prior to
kiln-drying is suggested. No kiln schedule data available. Shrinkage green to
ovendry: radial 6.4%; tangential 8.6%; volumetric 15.2%.
Working Properties: A notably hard and abrasive wood that requires wear-resistant
cutters for satisfactory machining; can be finished smoothly.
Durability: The Venezuelan species are reported to be vulnerable to attack by
decay fungi as well as termites.
Preservation: Heartwood treats poorly by both pressure-vacuum and open-tank
systems. Sapwood should have adequate treatment if incised.
Uses: General construction, carpentry, furniture, and turnery. C. ~a~n;'o is
favored for its edible fruit.
Additional Reading (24), (41), (56)
Dacryodes excelsa
Gommier
Candle Tree
Family: Burseraceae
Other Common Names: Tabonuco (Puerto Rico), Gommier blanc (Guadeloupe), Gommier
montagne (Martinique).
Distribution: Puerto Rico and Lesser Antilles from St. Kitts to Grenada.
Generally in small groups along upper slopes, but forms almost pure stands at
high elevations in Dominica.
The Tree
Reaches a height of 100 ft or more and diameters of 3 to 5 ft; straight well-
formed clear boles; unbuttressed.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood is a uniform pale brown with a purplish cast
when first cut, turning to a lustrous pinkish brown when seasoned, resembling
mahogany; clearly demarcated from narrow grayish sapwood. Texture fine to medium;
grain more or less roey with attractive ribbon stripe; odor and taste lacking.
Silica content of 0.50% is reported.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.52; air-dry
density 40 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (2-in. standard)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (48) 9,330 1,200 4,530
12% 13,030 1,530 7,150
Janka side hardness 690 lb for green material and 900 lb at 12% moisture content.
Drying and Shrinkage: The wood air-seasons easily with only minor degrade in the
form of slight warp and end checking and with no apparent surface checking. No
dry kiln data available. Shrinkage green to ovendry: radial 4.1%; tangential
6.4%; volumetric 10.5%.
Working Properties: A moderately good machining wood; cuts and saws easily but,
because of an abundance of silica, rapidly dulls saw teeth and other cutting
edges. The wood finishes smoothly and is easy to lacquer or varnish.
Durability: The heartwood is only slightly resistant to attack by decay fungi
when in ground contact and is very susceptible to attack by dry-wood termites;
not resistant to marine borer attack.
Preservation: The heartwood and sapwood are difficult to treat with preservatives
by either pressure or nonpressure methods. incising improves absorption of
sapwood.
Uses: Furniture and cabinet work, possible veneer wood, general construction. The
trees are scarred near the base to obtain a fragrant resin exudate used to make
candies and for medicinal purposes.
Additiona
oily or waxy appearance and feel; sharply demarcated from the white sapwood.
Grain generally straight; texture medium to rather coarse; luster medium;
fragrant rose-like odor, taste distinctive.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) ranges from 0.62 to
0.73; air-dry density 47 to 56 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (2-in. standard)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (75) 14,140 1,840 5,510
12% 18,970 1,880 9,600
Janka side hardness 2,440 lb for green material and 2,720 lb at 12% moisture
content. Forest Products Laboratory toughness average for green and dry material
is 151 in.-lb (5/8-in. specimen). Above values for Brazilian De;berg;e with a
basic specific gravity of 0.80.
Drying and Shrinkage: The timber needs to be dried slowly to prevent checking.
Once seasoned it absorbs moisture slowly and is dimensionally stable in service.
Kiln schedule T3-C2 is suggested for 4/4 stock and T3-C1 for 8/4. Shrinkage green
to ovendry: radial 2.9%; tangential 4.6%; volumetric 8.5%.
Working Properties: This wood has excellent working properties and veneers well.
Some specimens may be too oily to take a good polish.
Durability: Heartwood is very resistant to decay and insect attack.
Preservation: No data available (the uses of this species are such that a
preservation treatment would not be desirable even if the wood would be
receptive).
Uses: Decorative veneers, fine furniture and cabinets, parts of musical
instruments, brush backs, knife and other handles, fancy turnery, piano cases,
marquetry.
Additional Reading (22), (56), (75)
Dalbergia retusa
Cocobolo
Family: Leguminosae
Other Common Names: Granadillo (Mexico, Guatemala), Funera (El Salvador), Palo
negro (Honduras), Nambar (Nicaragua, Costa Rica), Cocobolo, Cocobolo prieto
(Panama).
Distribution: Pacific regions of Central America and extending from Panama to
southwestern Mexico. Of limited occurrence, usually in the drier uplands.
The Tree
A small to medium-sized tree 45 to 60 ft high with trunk diameters of 20 to 24
in.; usually of poor form.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Somewhat variable in color when freshly sawn but
heartwood usually becoming a deep rich orange red with black striping or mottling
on exposure. Texture fine; grain straight to interlocked; oily; without
distinctive taste, odor slightly pungent and fragrant when worked. Fine dust may
cause dermatitis.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.80 to 0.98; air-
dry density 62 to 76 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: No data available, but is denser and stronger than
Brazilian rosewood (see D. nigra).
Drying and Shrinkage: Reported to have excellent drying properties, free of
surface and end checking. A kiln schedule similar to T1-B1 has been suggested.
Shrinkages usually low; high stability in use. Very low moisture absorption.
Working Properties: Reported to have excellent machining characteristics; natural
oils give the wood a good polish, but make it unsuitable for gluing. Fine dust
may produce rash resembling ivy poisoning.
Durability: Durability is high, has very high resistance to marine borer attack.
Preservation: No data available.
Uses: Highly favored in the cutlery trade for handles, inlay work, brush backs,
musical and scientific instruments, jewelry boxes, chessmen, and other specialty
items.
Additional Reading (55), (56)
Dalbergia stevensonii
Honduras Rosewood
Family: Leguminosae
Other Common Names: Palissandre du Honduras (French), Palisandro de Honduras
(Spanish), Honduras Rosenholz (German).
Distribution: Reported only in Belize (British Honduras) occurring in fairly
large patches along rivers but also on inter-riverain and drier areas; mostly
between Sarstoon and Monkey Rivers.
The Tree
Attains a height of 50 to 100 ft, with trunk diameters to 3 ft. Boles are often
fluted and short, commonly forked at about 20 to 25 ft from the ground.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood is pinkish brown to purple with alternating
dark and light zones forming a very attractive figure, distinct from 1- to 2-in.-
thick yellow sapwood. Texture medium to rather fine; grain generally straight to
slightly roey; luster low to medium; fresh wood has an aromatic odor which
dissipates with age, taste not distinctive to slightly bitter.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.75 to 0.88; air-
dry density 58 to 68 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: No data available.
Drying and Shrinkage: Reported to air-dry slowly with a marked tendency to check.
Kiln schedule T3-C2 is suggested for 4/4 stock and T3-C1 for 8/4. Shrinkage
values similar to other American rosewoods which are unusually low. Holds its
place well after manufacturing.
Working Properties: Moderately difficult to saw and machine due to its hardness,
dulls cutting edges; tends to ride over cutters. Excellent for turning and
finishes well if not too oily.
Durability: Heartwood is highly durable, reported to be moderately resistant to
termites.
Preservation: No data available.
Uses: Parts of musical instruments including percussion bars of xylophones,
veneers for fine furniture and cabinets, brush backs, knife handles, fine
turnery, many specialty items.
Additional Reading (22), (46), (56)
Dendropanax arboreus
Angelica Tree
Family: Araliaceae
Other Common Names: Polio (Puerto Rico), Lengua de vaca (Dominican Republic),
Mano de oso, Palo santo (Mexico), Nagua blanca, Vaquero (Panama), Quesito, Pama
(Venezuela), Banco (Colombia], Maria molle (Brazil).
Distribution: Common and widespread in tropical America, West Indies, Mexico, and
southward to Colombia, Venezuela, Peru, and Bolivia. Frequently used for shade
in coffee plantations.
The Tree
Typically a small tree, rarely up to 75 ft in height with a trunk diameter up to
25 in.; wide-spreading crown.
The Wood
General Characteristics: There is no color differentiation between heartwood and
sapwood; cream colored to grayish yellow. Grain is straight; texture medium and
uniform; luster low to medium; without distinctive odor or taste.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.40; air-dry
density 31 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First set of data based on 2-in. standard; second set on
1-in. standard.]
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
12% (44) 10,400 1,640
12% (41) 9,300 4,400
Janka side hardness at 12% moisture content 725 lb for Panama material and 530
lb for Venezuela material.
Drying and Shrinkage: The wood air-dries rapidly without developing degrade due
to checking or warping. No kiln schedule data available. Shrinkage green to
ovendry: radial 5.1%; tangential 8.3%; volumetric 13.8%.
Working Properties: The wood is easy to work but tends to develop fuzzy grain
during planing. A poor wood for turnery. Easy to cut into veneer.
Durability: The wood is very susceptible to attack by decay fungi and insects,
also prone to blue stain.
Preservation: The wood is easy to treat witddish brown, becoming
darker upon exposure; very distinct but not sharply demarcated from the thick
whitish or yellowish sapwood. Luster medium; texture fine to medium; grain
straight to interlocked; without distinctive odor or taste. Silica content
reported to be as high as 1.83%.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.81 to 0.93; air-
dry density 63 to 73 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First set of data based on 2-in. standard; second and
third sets based on 2-cm standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
12% (44) 24,400 2,920
12% (71) 34,000 15,700
Green (31) 23,800 3,070 11,000
15% 28,800 13,900
Janka side hardness about 4,000 lb at 12% moisture content.
Drying and Shrinkage: The wood air-dries at a moderate to slow rate with a
tendency to moderate surface and end checking; warp is reported to be slight to
severe. Kiln schedule data not available. Shrinkage green to ovendry: radial
5.3%; tangential 8.9%; volumetric 13.9%.
Working Properties: The wood is rated as very difficult to work because of its
high density and high silica content. Specially tipped cutters are required to
effectively saw or machine this wood. Torn grain is common.
Durability: The durability of this wood is reported to be high and with high
resistance to insect attack.
Preservation: The wood is rated as difficult to treat.
Uses: Heavy construction, railway crossties, industrial flooring, turnery,
vehicle framing.
Additional Reading (31), (44), (71)
Dialyanthera spp.
Cuangare
"Virola"
Family: Myristicaceae
Other Common Names: Fruta dorado (Costa Rica), Miguelario (Panama), Otoba
(Venezuela) Cuangare (Colombia) Coco (Ecuador).
Distribution: Main commercial supply from the species growing in almost pure
stands in the Pacific coastal fresh water swamp forests of Colombia and Ecuador.
Other species in upland forests of Costa Rica, Panama, and Venezuela.
The Tree
May reach a height of 100 ft and a trunk diameter of 50 in.; boles are well
formed and clear to 50 ft.
The Wood
General Characteristics: There is no demarcation between sapwood and heartwood,
pale pinkish brown. Luster medium to high; grain generally straight; texture
variable; without odor or taste.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.36; air-dry
density 28 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (2-in. standard]
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (7) 4,020 1,010 2,080
12% 7,300 1,520 4,760
12% (44) 10,400 1,900
Janka side hardness 235 lb for green material and 375 lb at 12% moisture content.
Drying and Shrinkage: Colombian cuangare air-seasons and kiln-dries rapidly but
material containing "brownheart" or wet streaks tends to collapse and has
irregular drying rates. in kiln drying, a modified T5-C3 schedule is suggested
for 4/4 stock (51). Shrinkage green to ovendry: radial 4.2%; tangential 9.4%;
volumetric 12.0%.
Working Properties: Generally machines well if sharp knives are used and dressed
with the grain. Easy to nail and glue; takes stain, pee to a height of 150 ft and diameters to 5 ft but more commonly
to 3 ft Boles are clear for 60 to 80 ft over heavy buttresses.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood reddish brown gray to reddish- or yellowish
brown sharply demarcated from narrow brownish-white sapwood. Texture medium;
unusual subsurface luster; grain usually straight, sometimes somewhat
interlocked; no distinctive odor or taste. Vessels are prominent as long brown
lines on side grain producing an attractive figure. Silica content reported 0.20
to 1.70% and as high as 2.92%.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.65; air-dry
density 50 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (2-in. standard)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (74) 11,410 1,840 5,590
12% 17,390 2,190 8,770
Janka side hardness 1,100 lb. for green material and 1,290 lb. at 12% moisture
content. Forest Products Laboratory toughness average for green and air-dry
material is 151 in.-lb. (5/8-in. specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: Moderately difficult to season, dries rapidly but with a
tendency to moderate checking and slight warping. A kiln schedule similar to T2-
B2 has been suggested. Shrinkage green to ovendry: radial 4.6%; tangential 8.2%;
volumetric 14.0%. Reported to hold its place well after manufacture. Heartwood
quite resistant to moisture absorption.
Working Properties: Working properties vary according to density and silica
content but generally works well and finishes smoothly. Specially tipped cutters
are suggested particularly for dried wood. Glues well.
Durability: Heartwood is resi@-&F17-->The Tree
Tall basally swollen trees to height of 100 ft and more, with trunk diameters to
30 in.; cylindrical bole.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Pale brownish color throughout, without distinction
between heartwood and sapwood. Luster medium; texture medium to rather fine;
grain usually straight; without distinctive odor or taste.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) ranges from 0.36 to
0.54; air-dry density 28 to 40 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First set of data based on 1-in. standard; second on the
2-in. standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
12% (24) 12,000 1,810 6,900
12% (44) 13,100 2,340
Janka side hardness reported to vary from 665 lb to 915 lb for material at 12%
moisture content. Forest Products Laboratory toughness 91 in.-lb at 12% moisture
content (5/8-in specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: The wood air-seasons rapidly but with considerable degrade.
Warping is moderate to severe, checking and end splitting is reported to be
absent to moderate. No data available on kiln schedules. Shrinkage from green to
ovendry: radial 5.9%; tangential 9.2%; volumetric 14.8%.
Working Properties: The wood works easily with either hand or machine tools but
has a tendency to produce fuzzy and torn grain in planing and gives only fair
surfaces in most other operations. Takes screws and nails very well and is easy
to glue. Can be cut into utility grade veneers.
Durability: The wood is very susceptible to fungus and insect attack as well as
attack by dry- wood termites; also prone to blue stain.
Preservation: Absistics: Freshly cut heartwood is generally chocolate brown
turning to a lighter brown when dry, occasionally grayish brown, with fine
lighter parenchyma stripes; sharply demarcated from whitish or yellowish sapwood.
Texture coarse; grain usually straight to slightly interlocked or slightly wavy;
luster medium to high and golden, often with a waxy without distinctive odor or
taste.
Weight: specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.78; air-dry density 58
pcf.
Mechanical Properties:(First set of values based on the 2-in. standard; second
set on the 1-in. standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (73) 17,400 2,680 8,020
12% 20,560 2,870 12,140
12 (24) 20,900 3,140 12,300
Janka side hardness 1,980 lb for green material and 2,140 lb at 12% moisture
content. Forest Products laboratory toughness average for green and dry material
is 201 in.-lb (5/8-in. specimen).
Drying and shrinkage: The wood is moderately difficult to air season and rapid
drying results in some checking and warping. Considerable checking and warping
will occur in kiln-drying unless a mild schedule is used; T7-B3 has been
suggested for 4/4 stock. Shrinkage green to ovendry: radial 4.6%; tangential
7.0%; volumetric 11.8%.
Working properties: The wood is moderately difficult to work and resulting
surfaces, especially in planing, are fair to poor due to the coarse texture and
frequent grain irregularity. The wood turns well and takes a good finish if
filler is first applied.
Durability: In laboratory evaluations, the heartwood is rated very durab&F0-->
A large overstory tree sometimes to 160 ft in height and trunk diameters to 40
in.; unbuttressed cylindrical boles are generally clear to 60 to 80 ft.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Fresh heartwood is reddish brown or purplish brown with
light yellowish-brown or purplish streaks; upon exposure gradually' becomes
uniform light brown or yellowish brown. Sapwood is distinct, narrow, yellowish
brown. Luster rather low to medium; texture fine; grain interlocked; waxy or oily
feel; taste not distinctive but may have a vanilla-like or rancid odor.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) ranges from 0.80 to
0.91; air-dry density 62 to 81 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First set of values based on 2-in. standard; second set
on 1-in. standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (74) 19,290 2,690 9,020
12% 27,270 3,030 13,720
12% (24) 22,400 3,010 13,200
Janka side hardness 2,200 lb for green material and 3,540 lb at 12% moisture
content. Forest Products Laboratory toughness average for green and dry material
is 265 in.-lb (5/8-in. specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: The wood is rated as easy to air-season with a slight
tendency to check and with moderate warping; drying was uniformly rapid. No dry
kiln data available. Shrinkage from green to ovendry: radial 5.0%; tangential
7.6%; volumetric 12.0%.
Working Properties: The wood is difficult to saw and bore; where severely
interlocked grain is not present, the wood planes to a smooth surface. Because
of its high density and oily Trinidad,
Venezuela, Guyana, and Brazil; often planted as an ornamental.
The Tree
Tree heights 60 to 100 ft with a stout short trunk 3 to 6 ft or more in diameter;
large spreading crown.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood brown with various shadings, sometimes with
a reddish tinge; sharply demarcated from the whitish sapwood. Grain typically
interlocked; texture coarse; without distinctive odor or taste but dust from
machining is pungent and irritating to mucous membranes and may cause allergies.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.34; air-dry
density 26 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (2-in. standard)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
12% (21) 8,500 1,050 4,900
Green (39) 5,030 610
Janka side hardness at 12% moisture content 520 lb.
Drying and Shrinkage: Seasons with little tendency to warp or check. Kiln
schedule T6-D4 is suggested for 4/4 stock. Shrinkage green to ovendry: radial
2.0%; tangential 5.2%; volumetric 7.2%. Holds its place well when manufactured.
Working Properties: The wood is easy to work with hand and machine tools but
raised and chipped grain is common in planing as well as rough end grain in
shaping. Tension wood is common resulting in fuzzy grain in most operations. Dust
from dry wood is an irritant.
Durability: The heartwood is reported to have good resistance to attack by decay
fungi; also resistant to dry-wood termite attack.
Preservation: No data available.
Uses: Corestock, pattern wood, paneling, interior trim, furniture components, and
veneer.
Additional Reature content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (73) 16,490 2,820 7,430
12% 23,540 3,180 11,520
12% (44) 18,200 2,720
12% (24) 21,900 3,120 13,100
Janka side hardness 2,000 lb for green material and 2,330 lb at 12% moisture
content. Forest Products Laboratory toughness average for green and dry material
is 285 in.-lb (5/8-in. specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: The wood is rated difficult to air-season; moderate crook
and surface checking developed in wood dried at a fast to moderate rate. No dry
kiln data available. Shrinkage from green to ovenacid white sandy soils. Also common in creek valleys and in high
savanna forests.
The Tree
Usually 80 to 90 ft high with trunk diameters 16 to 24 in. above the low
buttresses. Boles straight, cylindrical, and clear to 40 to 60 ft. Heart rot
common.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood light to dark red to reddish- or purplish-
brown with characteristic dark gummy streaks; sharply demarcated from the narrow
grayish- or brownish- white sapwood, also streaked with gum. Texture rather
coarse; grain typically straight; luster absent; taste not distinctive but with
rancid odor when fresh which disappears on drying.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.78; air-dry
density 58 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (2-cm standard)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (42) 15,100 2,180 8,380
12% 20,200 2,130 11,210
Janka side hardness 1,540 lb for green material and 2,040 lb at 12% moisture
content.
Drying and Shrinkage: Wood dries very slowly with a marked tendency to check,
split, and warp; honeycomb may develop in thick material. Kiln schedule T2-C2 is
suggested for 4/4 stock and T2-C1 for 8/4. Air-drying should precede kiln-drying.
Shrinkage green to ovendry: radial 3.6%; tangential 6.9%; volumetric 10.0%.
Working Properties: Though the wood has a high density, it is easy to work with
hand and machine tools; however, high gum exudation clogs saw teeth and cutters.
Once kiln dried, gum exudates are not a serious problem in machining; glues and
polishes well.
Durability: Heartwood is repod, 40 to 60 ft long; often
somewhat fluted or slightly buttressed.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood of most species is light brown, grayish brown,
reddish brown, or brownish buff, sometimes with black streaks, usually distinct
from the yellowish sapwood. Luster low; grain typically straight; texture fine
and uniform; without distinctive odor or taste. Depending on species, silica
content may be as high as 2.4%.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) varies with species
from 0.62 to 0.95, mostly about 0.85; air-dry density ranges from 48 to 74 pcf,
averaging about 64.
Mechanical Properties: (First two sets of data based on the 2-in. standard; the
third on the 1-in. standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (73) 10,870 1,480 3,880
12% 14,460 1,760 6,370
Green (73) 17,110 2,700 7,340
12% 26,470 3,140 11,210
12% (24) 30,300 3,180 13,400
Janka side hardness for green material ranges from 1,280 lb to 2,480 lb. Forest
Products Laboratory toughness average of green and dry material ranges from 239
to 365 in.-lb (5/8-in. specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: The wood is rated as fairly difficult to air-season, drying
rates are slow to moderate. Warp and checking are rated as slight to moderate,
depending on species. No kiln schedule data available. Shrinkage from green to
ovendry typically: radial 5.8%; tangential 10.3%; volumetric 15.9%.
Working Properties: Most of the species are difficult to work because of the high
density and high silica content (excepting E. tenax); specially tipped cutters
are suggested.
Durability: Most species are highly resistant to attack by both brown-rot and
white-rot fungi. Also most of the species have gained wide recognition for their
high degree of resistance to marine-borer attack. Resistance to dry-wood termite
attack is variable, depending on species.
Preservation: Highly resistant to preservation treatments.
Uses: Marine and other heavy construction, industrial flooring, pulpmill
equipment, railroad crossties, piling, and turnery.
Additional Reading (24), (44), (56), (73)
Eucryphia cordifolia
Ulmo
Family: Eucryphiaceae
Other Common Names: Gnulgu, Muermo, Roble de Chile, Ulmo (Chile).
Distribution: Occurs in Chile between 37 and 44 S. latitude, extending up the
mountains to the edge of glaciers.
The Tree
May reach a height of 130 ft and trunk diameters to 24 in.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood reddish- or grayish brown, sometimes
variegated; not sharply demarcated from the lighter colored sapwood. Luster
rather high; texture fine and uniform; grain generally straight; without
distinctive odor or taste.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.48; air-dry
density 38 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (2-in. standard)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (13) 7,000 1,130 3,770
12% 11,000 1,420 6,500
Drying and Shrinkage: The wood is rather difficult to season and is prone to
severe surface and end checkre;
not sharply defined from the yellowish-white sapwood. Luster is high; texture
medium; grain straight to irregular; without distinctive odor or taste.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.70; air-dry
density 54 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (2-in. standard)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (40) 13,200 2,040 6,440
12% 16,200 2,180 9,050
Janka side hardness 1,610 lb for green material and 1,820 lb at 12% moisture
content.
Drying and Shrinkage: The wood is reported to be easy to season with little
tendency to warp or check. No data on dry kiln schedules rply demarcated from the
narrow light-colored sapwood. Texture fine and uniform; straight grained; growth
rings usually narrow; without distinctive odor or taste; resembles California
redwood.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.38; air-dry
density 30 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (2-in. standard)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (23) 6,000 940 2,690
12% 8,700 1,160 5,150
Janka side hardness 430 lb for green material and 560 lb at 12% moisture content.
Drying and Shrinkage: The wood is reported to season readily with little or no
degrade. Kiln schedule data are not available. Shrinkage green to ovendry: radial
3.8%; tangential 5.8%; volumetric 9.1%.
Working Properties: The timber works easily in all hand and machine operations;
cutters must be kept sharp to get a smooth finish on end grain; easy to glue and
finish. The wood is easily split to produce shakes.
Durability: Laboratory soil-block tests indicate resistance to attack by white-
rot and brown-rot fungi. The wood has a local reputation for high durability.
Preservation: No data available but is reported to be probably permeable.
Uses: Shakes and shingles, general construction, pencil slats, musical
instruments, vats and tanks, lumber cores, and furniture components.
Additional Reading (23), (56), (69)
Genipa americana
Jagua
Genipa
Family: Rubiaceae
Other Common Names: Jagua azul (Mexico), Irayol (Guatemala), Brir (Costa Rica),
Angelina (Colombia), Caruto (Venezuela), Arasaloe, Tapoeripa (Surinam), Palo
Colorado, Huitoc (Peru), Genipapeiro (Brazil).
Distribution: General distribution throughout tropical America, from the West
Indies and Mexico to Argentina. Widely planted for its shade and fruit.
The Tree
Reaches a height of 70 ft; mostly 15 to 18 in. in diameter, but may reach 24 in.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood light yellowish brown sometimes with a slight
pinkish- or purplish-blue overcast, merging gradually into the cream-colored
sapwood. Luster medium; texture rather fine; grain straight to irregular; without
distinctive odor or taste. Narrow bands of darker-colored wood produce an
attractive striped figure.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.57; air-dry
density 44 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First set of data based on 2-cm standard; second set on
2-in. standard.)<
lit>
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (14) 11,000 920 4,250
15% 14,200 7,100
12% (24) 17,300 1,710 7,450
Janka side hardness 1,410 lb at 12% moisture content. Forest Products Laboratory
toughness 184 in.-lb at 12% moisture content (5/8-in. specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: The wood air-seasons slowly but with only minor warping and
virtually no surface checking. Data on dry kiln schedule not available. Shrinkage
from green to ovendry: radial 4.6%; tangential 9.1%; volumetric 13.5%. Should
stay in place well after manufacture.
Working Properties: Works easily and with excellent results, rates better than
mahogany and teak. Glues satisfactorily and should finish without difficulty. Can
be peeled to produce tight and smooth veneers.
Durability: Reported to be very susceptible to attack by dry-wood termites,
pinhole borers, and decay fungi.
Preservation: Both heartwood and sapwood are reported to respond well to
preservation treatments using either open-tank or pressure-vacuum systems.
Uses: Shoe lasts, tool handles, bent work, furniture and cabinet work, turnery,
flooring, veneer, and plywood. Fruit is used to produce a sour refreshing drink,
when immature used to prepare an indelible stain.
Additional Reading (14), (24), (45), (56)
Gossypiospermum praecox
West Indian Boxwood
Maracaibo Boxwood
Family: Flacourtiaceae
Other Common Names: Agracejo (Cuba), Palo blanco (Dominican Republic), Zapatero
(Colombia, Venezuela).
Distribution: Dominican Republic, Cuba, the Maracaibo Lake region of Venezuela
and in eastern Colombia. Usually on dry chalky or rocky slopes.
The Tree
A small tree yielding logs 9 to 12 ft, sometimes 16 ft in length; with diameters
of 6 to 12 in., occasionally up to 18 in.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Wood lemon yellow to nearly white with little or no
difference between heartwood and sapwood. Texture very fine and uniform; luster
high; grain generally straight; odor and taste not distinctive.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.65 to 0.73; air-
dry density 50 to 56 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: No data available.
Drying and Shrinkage: Must be converted rapidly as blue-stain is common in stored
logs. Somewhat difficult to air-dry; kiln-drying of small dimensions using a T3-
A1 schedule is suggested; the wood has a tendency to check. Once dried has high
dimensional stability. No data on shrinkage characteristics available.
Working Properties: The wood is easy to carve and turn, finishing very smoothly
and taking a high natural polish.
Durability: The wood has poor resistance to attack by decay fungi ancated from thick brownish or pinkish
sapwood. Luster medium to rather high; texture medium to coarse; grain straight
to interlocked; odor is fetid when fresh but dissipates upon drying though still
apparent.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.72; air-dry
density 54 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First two sets of data based on 2-in. standard; third set
on the 2-cm standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (73) 11,480 1,810 6,170
12% 15,300 2,150 8,350
12% (24) 16,600 2,370 10,850
Green (48) 14,000 1,980 7,350
15% 17,600 9,750
Janka side hardness about 1,400 lb for green material and 1,840 lb at 12%
moisture content. Forest Products Laboratory toughness average for green and dry
material is 132 in.-lb (5/8-in. specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: Moderately difficult to air-season, dries at a moderate
rate with only slight warping and checking. Kiln schedule T7-B3 is suggested for
4/4 stock. Shrinkage from green to ovendry: radial 4.5%; tangential 8.0%;
volumetric 12.6%.
Working Properties: It is rated fair to good in most operations but torn and
chipped grain is common in planing because of interlocked grain. Coarser material
requires a filler to obtain a smooth finish.
Durability: Laboratory evaluations indicate good resistance to attack by both
brown- and white-rot fungi, but rated only slightly to moderately resistant to
decay in field tests in Guyana. Resistant to dry-wood termite attack is dark greenish brown to almost black and
sharply demarcated from the narrow pale yellow or cream-colored sapwood. Texture
very fine; grain is strongly interlocked; a slight scent is evident when warmed
or rubbed. it has a characteristic oily feel due to the resin content that may
be as high as one-fourth of the air-dry weight.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 1.05; air-dry
density 80 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (2-in. standard)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
12% (46) 11,400
Janka side hardness 4,500 lb at 12% moisture content. Forest Products Laboratory
toughness 165 in.-lb at 9% moisture content (5/8-in. specimen).
Drying and shrinkage: The wood is difficult to dry and considerable care is
required to avoid shakes and end splits. Kiln schedule T2-C2 is suggested for 4/4
stock and T2-C1 for 8/4. No data available on shrinkage characteristics.
Working Properties: Very difficult to work with hand or machine tools; a cutting
angle of 15 or less is suggested in planing. The wood turns and shapes well and
takes a high polish. Because of oily resins, requires special surface treatments
for satisfactory gluing.
Durability: The heartwood is very resistant to attack by decay fungi, termites,
and marine borers.
Preservation: No data available, but because of the high guaiac resin content and
high density, treatability should be nil.
Uses: Bearings, bushing blocks, pulley sheaves, mallet heads, and turnery. Most
noted use is in bearings and bushing blocks for propeller shafts of ships because
of its self-lubrication and hardness.
Additional Reading (29), (46), (56)
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.46 to 0.57; air-
dry density 34 to 44 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First set of data based on 2-in. standard; second on 2-cm
standard; third on 1-in. standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (40) 8,000 1,340 4,070
12% 11,400 1,600 6,300
Green (42) 9,550 1,220 4,600
12% 12,750 1,400 6,950
12% (41) 17,900 7,750
Janka side hardness 930 lb for green material, ranges from 800 to 1,330 lb at 12%
moisture content. Forest Products Laboratory toughness 140 in.-lb at 12% moisture
content (5/8-in. specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: Air-dries slowly but with only a moderate amount of warping
and no checking. Kiln schedule T6-D2 is suggested for 4/4 stock and T3-D1 for
8/4. Shrinkage from green to ovendry: radial 3.4%; tangential 7.0%; volumetric
11.2%. Movement after manufacture is rated as small.
Working Properties: The wood saws and machines easily and well in all operations
except boring where there is a tendency to tear and crumble.
Durability: Heartwood has good resistance to dry-wood termites and is durable in
the ground.
Preservation: Both heartwood and sapwood are not responsive to preservation
treatments using either open-tank or pressure-vacuum systems.
Uses: Furniture, cabinet work, turnery, interior trim, joinery, ship construction
(planking and trim), general carpentry, andndard)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
12% (24) 22,800 2,860 12,300
15% (20) 27,800 14,100
Janka side hardness about 2,700 lb for dry material. Forest Products Laboratory
toughness 260 in.-lb at 12% moisture content (5/8-in. specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: The wood dries rapidly and with only slight degrade. Data
on dry kiln schedules not available. Shrinkage from green to ovendry: radial
5.4%; tangential 9.2%; volumetric 14.6%.
Working Properties: The wood is rated fair to good in all machining operations
but does cause excessive dulling of cutting edges; takes a high natural polish.
tinge on exposure; not distinct from sapwood. Texture moderately
coarse and even; grain straight; has a characteristic sour smell; luster low.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.46 to 0.52; air-
dry density 35 to 40 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: No data available but is reported to be equal to or
stronger than Pinus sylvestris in all mechanical properties.
Drying and Shrinkage: Air-dries rapidly; warp is severe unless stickers are
closely spaced and the piles are weighted; should be dried under cover. Lumber
requires chemical dipping to control blue stain and borer attack. Kiln schedule
T6-D2 is suggested for 4/4 stock. Shrinkage green to ovendry: radial 2.3%;
tangential 5.1%.
Working Properties: The timber is reported to saw without difficulty and planes
easily to a smooth surface; tends to split in nailing.
Durability: The timber is perishable and stains readily. Also highly susceptible
to borer and termite attack as well as powder-post beetles.
widely planted and
naturalized from southern Florida to Mexico, Peru, and Brazil, and throughout the
West Indies.
The Tree
Commonly grows to a height of 60 to 70 ft; with trunk diameters of 12 to 18 in.,
on favorable sites may attain diameters of 36 in. Boles are straight and of
fairly good length.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood is basically a grayish brown or olive but
often richly variegated with shades of purple and metallic blue; distinct from
the narrow, nearly white sapwood. Texture medium, often variable; grain fairly
straight; luster rather dull; no distinctive odor or taste.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.62; air-dry
density 47 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: No data available.
Drying and Shrinkage: No information available, but being prized as a high-grade
furniture wood suggests good seasoning characteristics.
Working Properties: The timber is reported to work easily.
eight/green volume) 0.76 to 0.85; air-
dry density 58 to 65 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First set of data based on the 2-in. standard; second set
on the 2-cm standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (73) 19,690 2,390 7,670
12% 30,170 2,910 12,540
Green (48) 15,100 1,980 5,880
15% 23,600 11,000
Janka side hardness 2,280 lb for green material and 3,500 lb at 12% moisture
content. Forest Products Laboratory toughness average for green and dry material
is 360 in.-lb (5/8-in. specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: The wood air-dries rapidly with only slight warp and
surface checking; rated easy to season. No data on kiln schedules available.
Shrinkage from green to ovendry: radial 6.2%; tangential 8.3%; volumetric 16.8%.
Working Properties: The wood is moderately difficult to work because of its high
density but smooth surfaces are obtained in sawing, planing, and boring. No
pronounced dulling of cutting edges was reported.
Durability: In laboratory tests the wood is rated very durable in resistance to
brown-rot and white-rot fungi. Railroad ties are reported to last 10 to 12 years
on well-drained soil in Brazil. The wood is low in resistance to marine borers.
Preservation: No information available.
Uses: Carpentry, railway crossties, heavy construction. Because of outstanding
shock resistance should be suitable for handle stock and other applications
requiring toughness.
Additional Reading (46), (73)
Humiria balsamifera
Tauroniro
Umiri
Family: Humiriaceae
Other Common Names: Bastard bulletwood, Tabaniro (Guyana), Basra bolletrie,
Tawanangro (Surinam), Bois rouge, Houmiri (French Guiana), Oloroso (Colombia),
Couramira, Turanira (Brazil).
Distribution: The Guianas, Colombia, Venezuela, and the Brazilian Amazon. In
Guyana it is a principal dominant species in the marsh forests; does best on
light sandy soils. In Surinam occurs in savanna forests.
The Tree
Heights 90 to 120 ft with long cylindrical clear bole 60 to 70 ft; commonly 20
to 28 in. in diameter, occasionally up to 48 in.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood varies from light brown to reddish brown;
poorly demarcated from the narrow light brown sapwood. Texture medium; grain
straight to interlocked; luster medium; without distinctive odor or taste.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.66; air-dry
density 50 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (2-in. standard)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (75) 11,720 2,060 5,810
12% 18,770 2,510 8,950
Janka side hardness 1,320 lb for green wood and 1,610 lb at 12% moisture content.
Forest Products Laboratory toughness average for green and dry material is 146
in.-lb (5/8-in. specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: The wood air-dries at a rapid rate with slight surface and
end checking and some warping. No data available on kiln schedules. Shrinkage
from green to ovendry: radial 7.2%; tangential 9.7%; volumetric 15.7%.
Working Properties: The wood is moderately difficult to work, considerable
chipped grain develops in planing woode.
The Tree
Commonly reaches heights of 90 to 130 ft with clear boles of 40 to 75 ft;
diameters of 3 to 5 ft and at times 6 to 9 ft. Trees often have small buttresses;
bark covered with conical spines.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood pale yellowish brown or pale olive gray;
sapwood yellowish white often indistinct from heartwood. Texture fine to medium;
luster high; grain straight to interlocked; without distinctive odor or taste.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.33 to 0.38; air-
dry density 25 to 28 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First and third sets of data based on the 2-in. standard;
second set on the 2-cm standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (74) 6,310 1,040 2,790
12% 8,710 1,170 4,800
Green (48) 5,100 820 2,270
15% 8,000 3,860
12% (44) 7,050 895
Janka side hardness 440 lb for green material and 550 lb at 12% moisture content.
Forest Products Laboratory toughness average for green and dry material is 70
in.-lb (5/8-in. specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: Moderately difficult to air-dry; with variable warping,
sometimes severe. Checking is slight. Dry kiln schedule T6-D2 is suggested for
4/4 stock and schedule T3-D1 for 8/4. Shrinkage green to ovendry: radial 2.7%;
tangential 4.5%; volumetric 7.3%. Movement in place is rated as medium.
Working Properties: The wood usually machines easily but green material is
somewhat difhout the West
Indies. Varies from abundant in seasonal marshes to relic occurrences in old
forests on heavy soils.
The Tree
Large straight trees with spreading rounded buttresses; reaching heights of 130
ft; with trunk diameters of 3 ft or more, but more commonly with diameters of 20
to 24 in. Stems are often clear to 70 ft.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood is a light reddish brown, to chocolate brown,
to dark red; sapwood is pinkish white and 1 to 2 in. wide. Luster is low; texture
moderately coarse; grain is interlocked; without distinctive odor or taste;
tangential surfaces have parabolic markings due to variations in color at the
margins of seasonal growth increments.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.60 to 0.67; air-
dry density 46 to 53 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First set of data based on 2-in. standard; second on the
2-cm standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (75) 10,680 1,880 4,960
12% 18,200 2,270 9,620
Green (30) 11,500 1,520 4,900
15% 16,500 8,450
Janka side hardness 1,220 lb for green material and 1,700 lb at 12% moisture
content. Forest Products Laboratory toughness average for green and dry material
is 187 in.-lb (5/8-in. specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: The wood air-seasons rapidly with only a moderate amount
of warp and surface checking developing. No data on kiln drying schedules
available. Shrinkage from green to ovendry: radial 5.4%; tangential 11.7%;
volumetric 17.0%.
Working Properties: The wood is reported to have good working properties in all
operations except planing which is rated poor due to the characteristic roey
grain.
Durability: The wood is rated moderately durable to very durable in ground
contact based on laboratory pure culture evaluations as well as experience in
railroad track. Resistant to moderately resistant to subterranean and dry-wood
termites. Resistance to marine borers reported high for H. laxiflora.
Preservation: Both heartwood and sapwood are reported to treat moderately well
using both open-tank and pressure-vacuum systems; test specimens had large end-
grain exposure.
Uses: Heavy construction, railway crossties, marine work, furniture, cabinet
work, decorative veneers, flooring, turnery, and joinery.
Additional Reading (24), (30), (46), (75)
Hymenaea courbaril
Courbaril
Family: Leguminosae
Other Common Names: Cuapinol, Guapinol (Mexico), Guapinol (Central Ame
dry density 52 to 61 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First set of data based on the 2-in. standard; the second
on the 1-in. standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (74) 12,940 1,840 5,800
12% 19,400 2,160 9,510
12% (24) 25,100 2,870 14,200
Janka side hardness at 12% moisture content 2,350 to 3,290 lb. Forest Products
Laboratory toughness average for green and dry material is 230 in.-lb (5/8-in.
specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: The wood is rated as slightly difficult to air-dry; it
seasons at a fast to moderate rate with only slight checking and warp. Kiln
schedule T3-C2 is suggested for 4/4 stock and T3-C1 for 8/4. Shrinkage green to
ovendry: radial 4.5%; tangential 8.5%; volumetric 12.7%-values are low for a wood
of this density.
Working Properties: The wood is moderately difficult to saw and machine largely
because of its high density, but except in planing it can be machined to a smooth
surface. The wood is somewhat difficult to plane because of the interlocked
grain. It is easy to glue and finish satisfactorily; steam-bending properties
comparable to white oak.
Durability: Laboratory evaluations rate the wood very resistant to brown-rot and
white-rot fungi; actual field exposure trials also rate the wood as very durable.
Heartwood is also rated very resistant to dry-wood termites; little resistance
to marine borers.
Preservation: Heartwood is not treatable using open-tank or pressure-vacuum
systems. Sapwood, however, is responsive.
Uses: Tool handles and other applications where good shock resistance ish a rather gradual transition to the white
or grayish sapwood. Texture rather coarse and uneven; luster rather low; grain
straight to interlocked; without distinctive odor or taste. Alternating zones of
dark and light tissue give a figure of the Partridge wood type.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.6; air-dry density
46 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First set of data based on 2-in. standard standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (73) 14,610 1,950 7,460
12% 17,610 2,050 8,990
12% (24) 13,300 2,000 9,050
Janka side hardness 1,720 lb for both dry and green material. Forest Products
Laboratory toughness average for green and dry material is 203 in.-lb (5/8-in
specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: Reported to be moderately difficult to air-dry season.
Rate of drying fast to moderate with moderate warp and slight surface and end
checking. No data on kiln schedules available. Shrinkage green to ovendry:
radial 4.4%; tangential 7.1%; volumetric 10.2%.
Working Properties: The wood is easy to work in all operations and machines to
a smooth surface.
Durability: In laboratory tests heartwood was rated very durable upon exposure
to white-rot and durable in resistance to a brown-rot fungus. Exposure tests
indicate the heartwood is only moderately resistant to marine borers.
Preservation: Heartwood and sapwood are both reported to respond well to
pressure-vacuum treatments; test specimens, however, had high end-grain exposure.
Uses: Heavy construction, turnery, and furniture.
Additiity (ovendry weight/green volume) varies with species
from 0.35 to 0.57; air-dry density 26 to 44 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (2-in. standard)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (75) 7,570 1,680 3,260
12% 12,650 2,180 6,970
Green (75) 9,190 1,960 4,430
12% 15,710 2,620 9,420
Janka side hardness 580 to 710 lb for green material and 850 to 1,010 lb at 12%
moisture content. Forest Products Laboratory toughness average for green and dry
material is 102 in.-lb (5/8-in. specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: The wood can be air-dried with little or only moderate
difficulty; slight to moderate checking and warp may develop. Data on dry kiln
schedules are not available. Shrinkage from green to ovendry: radial 5.3%;
tangential 9.4%; volumetric 15.6%. These shrinkage values are unusually high when
compared to other tropical woods of the same density.
Working Properties: All of the species have very good machining properties and
produce smooth surfaces on the normally straight-grained material. The wood is
easily peeled for veneer.
Durability: The durability of all species is rated from nondurable to only
moderately durable based on pure-culture decay resistance tests. The woods are
also prone to blue stain.
Preservation: No information available.
Uses: Millwork, turnery, furniture, boxes and crates, veneer and plywood, general
construction, fiberboard, and particleboard.
Additional Reading (56), (71), (75)
Jacaranda copaia
Copaia
Family: Bignoniaceae
Othes of data based on 2-in. standard; third set
on the 1-in. standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (75) 4,580 1,160 1,980
12% 7,040 1,310 4,120
12% (44) 9,850 1,730
12% (24) 8,600 1,900 4,650
Janka side hardness 280 lb for green wood and 350 lb at 12% moisture content.
Forest Products Laboratory toughness average for green and dry material is 54
in.-lb (5/8-in specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: The wood dries rapidly and is rated easy to season; only
slight surface and end checking develops. No data available on kiln schedules.
Shrinkage green to ovendry: radial 4.5%; tangential 6.5%.
Working Properties: The wood is easy to work; however, sawn surfaces of green
lumber are often woolly. Even after seasoning, sawn and planed surfaces are apt
to be fuzzy unless cutters are very sharp; easy to peel and slice into veneer.
Durability: The wood is perishable in ground contact, vulnerable to insect
attack, and prone to blue stain.
Preservation: The wood has good treatability using either open-tank or pressure-
vacuum systems.
Uses: Furniture components, interior construction, utility plywood, boxes and
crates, concrete form work, match-sticks and matchboxes, fiberboard,
particleboard, and pulp and paper.
Additional Reading (24), (44), (72), (76)
Juglans spp.
Nogal
Tropical Walnut
Family: Juglandaceae
Other Common Names: Nogal silvestre, Nuez meca (Mexico), Nogal blanco, Tocte
(Peru), Nogal criollo (Argentina).
Distribution: Varying with species, these walnuts range from southern Mexico,
through Central America, and the Cordilleras of Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. Also
found in mountain regions of Argentina.
The Tree
Mostly up to 60 ft in height with diameters up to 36 in.; sometimes free from
branches for 30 ft but more frequently clear to 10 or IS ft.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood chocolate brown and generally darker than the
North American black walnut, sometimes with a purplish cast; sharply demarcated
from the whitish sapwood. Texture rather coarse; luster high; grain straight to
irregular; odor and taste mild but distinctive.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.50; air-dry
density 38 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (2-in. standard)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
15% (69) 9,100 1,020 5,180
Drying and Shrinkage: The wood dries very slowly, wet zones persist, and severe
honeycombing and collapse may occur in stock thicker than 4/4. Air-drying as
thoroughly as possible before kiln drying is suggested. Kiln schedule T6-D4 is
proposed for 4/4 stock and T3-D3 for 8/4. Shrinkage green to ovendry: radial
2.8%; tangential 5.5%.
Working Properties: The wood works well, cutting cleanly with hand and machine
tools and taking an excellent finish; also peels and slices readily but the
veneers are also reported to dry slowly.
Durability: No data available.
Preservation: Very low permeability is reported.
Uses: Decorative veneers, furniture, cabinet work, interior finish, and other
applications similar to North American black walnut.
Additional Reading (8), (38), (56), (69)
Lecythis spp.
Sapucaia
Monkey Pot
Family: Lecythidaceae
Other Common Names: Coco (Panama), Coco mono, Coco cristal (Colombia), Coco de
mono, Olla de mono (Venezuela), Monkey Pot (Guyana), Kwattapatoe (Surinam),
Castanha sapucaia, Sapucaia vermelha (Brazil), Machin-mango (Peru).
Distribution: Widely distributed from southeastern Brazil through northern South
America to Costa Rica. Common in the Amazon lowlands and coastal mountain forests
of Brazil.
The Tree
Size varies with species but may reach height of 130 ft with straight cylindrical
boles clear ~W 60 ft and more, diameters of 5 to 6 ft are common; usually 20 to
30 in. Stems are somewhat buttressed or shallowly fluted.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood light to dark salmon; sapwood creamy yellow.
Texture medium fine and uniform; luster mostly low but high in some species;
grain fairly straight slightly interlocked; without distinctive odor or taste.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) varying with species
from 0 to 0.93; air-dry density 46 to 69 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First two sets of data based on the 2-in. standard; third
set on 1-in. standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (73) 18,340 2,890 8,880
12% 27,540 3,380 13,280
12% (44) 14,100 1,840
12% (24) 27,000 3,240 13,500
Janka side hardness for denser species 2,430 lb for green material and 3,100 lb
at 12% moisture content. Forest Products Laboratory toughness average for green
and dry material may reach 300 to 400 in.-lb (5/8-in. specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: Rated as easy to moderately difficult to air-season
depending 0 species; a slow to rapid drying rate is reported. Warp and checking
ranged from slight to moderate. No data on dry kiln schedules available.
Shrinkage green to ovendry: radial 6.0%; tangential 7.6%; volumetric 13.4%. These
values are low for a wood of this high density.
Working Properties: The wood is moderately difficult to work because of its high
dens however, surfaces obtained in planing, boring, sawing, and shaping were
smooth and good to excellent. Silica content varies with species and dulling of
cutters is also variable.
Durability: The wood is reported to be very durable upon exposure to both a
white-rot brown-rot fungus confirming its reputation for high resistance to
decay. Heartwood is also highly resistant to dry-wood termites. Reported to be
moderately resistant to marine borer attack.
Preservation: The wood is highlyr for 50 to 60 ft in the larger trees. Diameters commonly 16 to 24 in.,
often to 36 in. Some species are buttressed or stiltrooted.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood is generally a yellowish brown to brown or
dark brown, sometimes with a reddish tinge; sapwood tan, often rather
indistinct. Texture usually fine and close; luster rather low; usually straight
grained; without characteristic odor or taste. Silica content varies with
species but may be as high as 3 to 4%.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) varies with species
from 0.64 to 0.91; air-dry density 52 to 72 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (2-in. standard)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (73) 17,070 2,930 7,580
12% 27,660 3,340 13,390
Green (73) 14,380 2,320 6,720
12% 20,650 2,530 11,010
Janka side hardness 2,250 lb for green material and 3,570 lb at 12% moisture
content. Forest Products Laboratory toughness average for green and dry material
is 213 in.-lb (5/8-in. specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: The woods are rated easy to moderately difficult to air-
season; drying is at a moderate to rapid rate. Warping and checking are generally
rated as slight. Data on kiln schedules not available. Shrinkage from green to
ovendry: radial 7.5%; tangential 11.7%; volumetric 17.2%.
Working Properties: The woods of Licania are difficult to work because of the
high silica content and high density. Smooth surfaces are obtainable if tools
are kept sharp. Specially hardened cutters are suggested.
Durability: Varies with species, generally considered to have low to moderately
low resistance to attack by decay fungi. One species is reported to be resistant
to dry-wood termite attack; all are known for their high resistance to attack by
marine borers.
Preservation: Varies with species, generally heartwood is moderately responsive
to both open-tank and pressure-vacuum treatments. Sapwood is reported to have
good absorption and penetration.
Uses: Underwater marine construction, heavy construction above ground, railroad
crossties (treated), charcoal, and fuel.
Additional Reading (24), (44), (46), (73)
Licaria spp.
Kaneelhart
Brown Silverballi
Family: Lauraceae
Other Common Names: Brown silverballi, Kharemero shiruaballi (Guyana),
Kaneelhart, Kaneel-pisie (Surinam), Bois canelle (French Guiana).
Distribution: Centered mostly in the Guianas; found in association with
Greenheart on hilly terrain, also in Wallaba forests on sandy soils. Occurrence
is only occasional.
The Tree
May reach a height of 130 ft with diameters to 44 in., normally 90 to 110 ft with
diameters of 20 to 30 in. Boles are unbuttressed but basally swollen,
cylindrical, and clear for 50 to 70 ft.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood orange or brown yellow when freshly cut;
darkening to yellowish brown or coffee brown on exposure and sometimes with a
tinge of red or violet. Sapwood is light yellowish brown. The wood has a
fragrant odor most of which is lost on drying. Texture is fine to medium;
moderately lustrous; grain straight to slightly interlocked.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) varies with species
from 0.68 to 0.96; air-dry density 52 to 72 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (2-in. standard)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (73) 22,270 3,820 13,390
12% 29,860 4,060 17,400
Janka side hardness 2,210 lb for green material and 2,900 lb. at 12% moisture
content. Forest Products Laboratory toughness average for green and dry material
is 287 in.-lb (5/8-in. specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: Air-seasoning characteristics are variable depending upon
source and species ranging from easy to season to moderately difficult. Warp is
slight but checking can be severe. No data on dry kiln schedules available.
Shrinkage from green to ovendry: radial 5.4%; tangential 7.9%; volumetric 12.5%.
Shrinkage is unusually low for a wood of this high density.
Working Properties: High density material is diff on alluvial flats.
The Tree
Heights up to 100 ft with trunk diameters ranging from 16 to 40 in.; low
buttressed with clear boles to 60 ft.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood yellowish brown to dark reddish brown; sharply
demarcated from the thick yellowish sapwood. Heartwood striped with rather fine
uniform parenchyma laminations of lighter color. Texture moderately coarse;
luster low to medium; grain straight to irregular or interlocked; without
distinctive odor or taste.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) varying with species
from 0.62 to 0.76; air-dry density from 46 to 58 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First set of data based on the 1-in. standard; second and
third sets based on 2-cm standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
12% (24) 25,000 3,050 12,100
Green (30) 14,500 1,920 5,400
15% 19,400 7,600
Green (42) 18,600 2,240 9,500
12% 25,400 2,440 12,900
Janka side hardness up to 2,700 lb at 12% moisture content. Forest Products
Laboratory toughness up to 300 in.-lb at 12% moisture content (5/8-in.
specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: Varying with species, drying rate is rather slow to rather
rapid. Reported to dry satisfactorily without excessive distortion or shrinkage
if dried slowly. Kiln schedule T8-B3 is suggested for 4/4 stock and T5-B1 for
8/4 (L. castilloi). Shrinkage green to ovendry: radial 3.9%; tangentia
Distribution: Varying with species from southern Mexico, through Central America,
and southward to the Rio de la Plata region of Argentina.
The Tree
Size varies with species: 100 to 140 ft in height with diameters of 2 to 6 ft (L.
seemannii), to 65 ft in height with diameters of 20 in. (L. divaricata). Usually
with irregularly fluted trunks.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood brown or brownish, sometimes with a pinkish
tinge and more or less streaked; not clearly demarcated from the sapwood. Luster
varies from low to fairly high; texture fine to medium; grain straight to finely
roey; without distinctive odor or taste.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) slight variation
with species from 0.47 to 0.53; air-dry density 36 to 40 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First set of data based on 2-cm standard; second on the
2-in. standard; third on the 1-in. standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (30) 10,600 1,210 4,540
15% 13,700 6,450
Green (25) 8,500 1,520 4,200
12% 12,900 1,930 6,180
12% (41) 11,800 6,350
Janka side hardness about 900 lb at 12% moisture content. Amsler toughness 280
in.-lb at 15% moisture content (2-cm specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: Generally the various species air dry rapidly with little
or no degrade. No data available on kiln schedules. Shrinkage from green to
ovendry: radial 3.4%; tangential iameter; sometimes free
of branches for 25 ft.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood lustrous brown with a coppery or purplish
tinge, sometimes faintly striped; sharply demarcated from the thin white
sapwood. Texture medium; grain straight to roey; without distinctive odor or
taste.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.63; air-dry
density 48 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (2-in. standard)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (19) 9,500 1,230
12% 12,800 1,900
Janka side hardness 1,320 lb for green material and 1,400 lb at 12% moisture
content. Amsler tou distributed throughout
tropical America but are most abundant in Brazil, with commercial sources in the
southeast.
The Tree
Medium-sized, rarely large trees.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood brown to dark violet brown, often streaked,
rather waxy; sapwood whitish, grayish, or yellowish. Luster medium to high;
texture fine to coarse; grain straight to irregular; without distinctive taste
but sometimes walnut scented. Wood dust may cause dermatitis.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.65 to 0.75; air-
dry density 49 to 57 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (2-cm standard)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (30) 14,200 1,580 5,670
15% 17,000 8,000
Green (30) 14,000 1,240 5,550
15% 17,500 8,300
Janka side hardness for green material 1,450 to 1,780 lb. Amsler toughness 282
to 346 in.-lb at 15% moisture content (2-cm specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: No information on drying characteristics available.
Shrinkage green to ovendry: radial 2.6%; tangential 6.6%; volumetric 10.0%. These
values are exceptionally low for a wood of this high density.
Working Properties: Reported to be fair to excellent.
Durability: Heartwood highly resistant to attack by decay fungi.
Preservation: No information available.
Uses: Fine furniture, decorative veneers, turnery, specialty items, and cabinet
work. Generally useful for the same purposes as Brazilian rosewood (Dalbergiaaste.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) varying with species
from 0.45 to 0.59; air-dry density 34 to 44 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (2-in. standard)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (74) 8,560 1,690 3,590
12% 14,250 1,970 7,850
12% (62) 11,500 1,450
Janka side hardness `860 lb for green material and 1,090 lb at 12% moisture
content. Forest Products Laboratory toughness average for green and dry material
is 118 in.-lb (5/8-in. specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: All species are easy to air-season; the wood dries rapidly
with no or slight warp and checking. No data available on kiln schedules.
Shrinkage green to ovendry: radial 3.6%; tangential 7.0%; volumetric 11.2%.
Working Properties: The wood saws and machines easily, however in planing there
may be considerable tearing where grain is irregular. M. sororum is reported to
be fair to good in steam-bending quality.
Durability: Heartwood is rated durable to highly durable with respect to
deterioration by both white-rot and brown-rot fungi but vulnerable to dry-wood
termite attack.
Preservation: Heartwood is resistant to moisture absorption and is probably
difficult to treat.
Uses: Utility veneer and plywood, millwork, furniture and cabinet work, general
interior and exterior construction, boat planking, and turnery.
Additional Reading (45), (62), (74)
Manilkara bidentata
Bulletwood
Balata
Family: Sapotaceae
Other Common Names: Chicozapote (Mexico), Ausubo (Puerto Rico, Dominican
Republic), Nispero (Panama), Beefwood (Guyana), Bolletri (Surinam), Balata rouge
(French Guiana), Macaranduba (Brazil).
Distribution: Widely distributed throughout the West Indies, Central America, and
northern South America; occurs in many forest types and not exacting as to soil
or topography. Locally frequent.
The Tree
Well-formed tree reaching heights of 100 to 150 ft and diameters of 2 to 4 ft,
occasionally up to 6 ft or more. Boles straight and clear to 60 ft, often basally
swollen.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood light to dark reddish brown, distinct but not
sharply demarcated from the whitish or pale brown sapwood. Texture fine and
uniform; luster low to medium; grain straight to occasionally slightly wavy or
interlocked; without distinctive odor or taste.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.85; air-dry
density 66 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First and third sets of data based on the 2-in. standard;
second on the 1-in. standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (74) 17,310 2,700 8,690
12% 27,280 3,450 11,640
12% (24) 29,200 3,520 13,300
12% (20) 32,600 15,200
Janka side hardness 2,230 lb for green material and 3,190 lb at 12% moisture
content. Forest Products Laboratory toughness average for green and dry material
is 265 in.-lb (5/8-in. specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: Balata or bulletwood is generally reported to be a
difficult wood to air-season, tending to develop severe checking and warp.
However, if piled to assure a slow rate of drying, degrade can be kept to a
minimum. A kiln schedule similar to T1-B1 has been suggested. Shrinkage green to
ovendry: radial 6.3%; tangential 9.4%; volumetric 16.9%.
Working Properties: The wood is moderately easy to work despite its high density,
rated good to excellent in all operations. Gluing requires special care to
acquire a good bond. Steam-bending properties are rated excellent.
Durability: Very resistant to attack by decay fungi; highly resistant to
subterranean termites and moderately resistant to dry-wood termites. Not
resistant to marine borer attack.
Preservation: Has high resistance to absorption of moisture and is also highly
resistant to preservation treatments.
Uses: Heavy construction, textile and pulpmill equipment, furniture parts,
turnery, tool handles, flooring, boat frames and other bent work, railway
crossties, violin bows, billiard cues, and other specialty uses. Also well known
for its yiendry weight/green volume) varying with species
from 0.64 to 0.77; air-dry density 49 to 59 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (1-in. standard)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
12% (24) 18,200 2,410 11,100
Janka side hardness 2,240 lb at 12% moisture content. Forest Products Laboratory
toughness 120 in.-lb at 12% moisture content (5/8-in. specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: Reported to air-dry slowly with a tendency toward severe
warping. No data on dry kiln schedules available. Shrinkage from green to
ovendry: radial 4.6%; tangential 8.9%.
Working Properties: Reported to have satisfactory working qualities, particularly
suited for turnery.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) varying with species
from 0.54 to 0.68; air-dry density 41 to 51 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First two sets of data based on the 2-in. standard; third
set on the 2-cm standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (75) 13,630 2,470 6,610
12% 18,890 2,950 9,820
15% (34) 19,620 2,410 9,800
Green (30) 11,000 1,500 4,850
15% 14,500 7,100
Janka side hardness 1,130 lb for green material and 1,490 lb at 12% moisture
content. Forest Products Laboratory toughness average for green and dry material
is 128 in.-lb (5/8-in. specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: The wood air dries at a rapid rate with moderate warping
and slight to moderate checking. No data available on dry kiln schedules.
Shrinkage green to ovendry: radial 5.8%; tangential 8.5%; volumetric 14.3%.
Working Properties: Some species moderately difficult to saw and machine with
rather rapid dulling of cutters due to silica. However, straight-grained stock
yields smooth surfaces in most operations.
Durability: The heartwood is rated as moderately durable in resistance to white-
rot fungi and veryay soils.
The Tree
Usually 100 to 120 ft high and 2 to 3 ft in diameter with clear boles 60 ft and
more above very large buttresses that may extend 15 ft up the trunk. Trees of M.
excelsa 160 to 200 ft high and 4 ft in diameter are reported.
The Wood
General characteristics: Heartwood yellowish red brown, reddish brown or dark red
with paler streaks; sapwood 2 to 6 in. wide, distinct, yellowish to pale brown.
Texture moderately fine to rather coarse, rather harsh to the feel; luster medium
to high; grain is straight to commonly interlocked, very variable; astringent
taste and a slightly sour odor.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.76 to 0.84; air-
dry density 59 to 65 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First set of data based on the 2-in. standard, the second
on the 2-cm standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (75) 12,630 2,330 6,400
12% 22,100 2,960 11,840
Green (42) 13,600 2,150 7,150
12% 24,400 2,790 12,700
Janka side hardness 1,450 lb for green material and 2,300 lb at 12% moisture
content. Forest Products Laboratory toughness average for green and dry material
is 228 in.-lb (5/8-in. specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: Drying reports are variable, generally rated moderately
difficult to season; a slow rate of drying and careful stacking are suggested to
keep warp and other degrade to a minimum. Boxed heart pieces tend to split. Kiln
schedule T2-C2 is suggested for 4/4 stock and T2-C1 for 8/4. Shrinkage from green
to ovendry radial 6.9%; tangential 9.8%; volumetric 18.8%.
Working Properties: The wood is moderately difficult to work but yields smooth
surfaces in sawing, planing, turning, or boring unless interlocked grain is
present, then there may be considerable "pick up" and chipped grain.
Durability: Results are variable; material from Surinam and Guyana is rated
durable to very durable in resistance to brown-rot and white-rot fungi. Service
life of 15 to 20 years in ground contact is reported. M. gonggrijpii is rated
very resistant to dry-wood termites; M. excelsa considerably less so, not
resistant to marine borers.
Preservation: Sapwood responds readily to preservative treatments; heartwood
resists impregnation, penetration is very shallow, and absorptions are low.
Uses: Industrial flooring, railroad crossties, shipbuilding, heavy construction,
high quality charcoal wood.
Additional Reading (34), (42), (46), (75)
Myroxylon balsamumdata based on the 2-cm standard; the second
and third on the 2-in. standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (30) 16,900 1,820 8,600
15% 19,200 10,300
12% (20) 25,400 13,400
Green (40) 17,270 2,130 8,200
12% 20,130 2,430 11,100
Janka side hardness 2,070 lb for green material and 2,200 lb at 12% moisture
content. Amsler toughness 360 in.-lb at 15% moisture content (2-cm specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: No information available on seasoning characteristics.
Shrinkage from green to ovendry: radial 3.8%; tangential 6.2%; volumetric 10.0%.
These values are very low for a wood of this high density.
Working Properties: It is reported to be moderately difficult to work but can be
finished smoothly with a high natural polish. Though nonsiliceous, there is more
than the usual dulling of cutters.
Durability: The heartwood is reported to be highly resistant to attack by decay
fungi.
Preservation: Both sapwood and heartwood are highly resistant to preservative
treatments.
Uses: Flooring, furniture, interior trim, turnery, railroad crossties. The tree
is well known for its yield of balsam used in perfumes, harvested mainly in El
Salvador.
Additional Reading (20), (30), (40), (56)
Nectandra spp.
Canelo
Laurel
Family: Lauraceae
Other Common Names: Aguacatillo (Mexico, Honduras, Costa Rica), Laurel (Colombia,
Venezuela), Silverballi (Guyana), Pisi (Surinam), Canela (Brazil), Ayui-y, Laurel
(Argentina). A large number of species make up this group.
Distribution: Widely distributed throughout tropical America.
The Tree
Varies with species, may reach a height of 100 ft; commonly up to 28 in. in
diameter, occasionally to 40 in. Boles are straight and cylindrical, sometimes
buttressed.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood brownish yellow with a green cast, or olive
to light olive brown and in some species becoming blackish brown; transition to
whitish or brownish sapwood often gradual. Texture mostly medium to rather
coarse; luster usually satiny or silky; grain straight to roey; odor spicy, taste
mild to pronounced.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) varying with
species, mostly 0.43 to 0.61; air-dry density 32 to 46 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First set of data based on the 2-in. standard; second and
third sets based on the 2-cm standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (74) 10,440 1,540 5,020
12% 14,230 1,650 7,260
Green (30) 12,800 1,900 5,330
15% 17,100 8,500
Green (30) 10,900 1,370 4,870
15% 12,400 6,620
Janka side hardness 930 lb for green material and 1,060 lb at 12% moisture
content. Forest Products Laboratory toughness average for green and dry material
is 123 in.-lb (5/8-in. specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: The wood air-dries at a fast to moderatArgentina).
Distribution: Coigue: From 38 S. latitude northward along the Chilean coast and
up the river valleys into the high cordilleras in northern Llanquihue on poor
soils. Rauli: From the Province of Valparaiso to the Province of Valdivia, mostly
on good soils.
The Tree
May reach heights of 130 ft with trunk diameters usually 2 to 3 ft, occasionally
6 to 8 ft. Boles often clear to 60 ft.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood varies from pale pinkish brown to reddish
brown to bright cherry red; sapwood often wide, light brown. Texture mostly fine
and uniform. Rauli has a tendency to ring porosity; without distinctive odor or
taste; grain is straight; luster low to medium.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) ranges from 0.45 to
0.53; air-dry density 34 to 40 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (2-cm standard)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (23) 7,500 1,220 3,550
12% 11,500 1,490 6,650
Green (16) 10,700 1,380 4,000
12% 17,400 1,830 8,800
Green (23) 8,100 1,170 3,980
12% 11,200 1,420 6,480
Janka side hardness 840 lb for green material, 990 lb at 12% moisture content.
Drying and Shrinkage: Generally very difficult to dry with a pronounced tendency
to distort and collapse. Kiln schedule T2-C2 is suggested for 4/4 stock and T2-C1
for 8/4 (Coigue). Dries rather slowly but well with little degrade (Rauli). Kiln
schedule T6-D2 is suggested for 4/4 stock and T3-D1 for 8/4. Movement probably
small (Rauli). Shrinkage green to ovendry: radial 3.5%; tangential 7.0% (Rauli).
Working Properties: Both species are easy to work and dress cleanly; fair to good
steam-bending qualities; easy to glue and finish.
Durability: Heartwood durability variable. Soil-block tests of Coigue indicate
low resistance to attack by decay fungi, but some references give a provisional
durable to moderately durable rating.
Preservation: Sapwood is reported to be permeable and heartwood rated as
moderately resistant. Pressure-vacuum treatment of Coigue gave preservative salt
penetrations of about 3 to 24 mm.
Uses: Furniture components, cabinet work, flooring, millwork, cooperage, an all-
purpose timber in Chile. Rauli is the preferred species.
Additional Reading (16), ("2), (42), (56)
Ochroma pyramidale
syn. O. lagopus
Balsa
Family: Bombacaceae
Other Common Names: Balsa (Central and South America in general), Corcho
(Mexico), Gatillo (Nicaragua), Enea, Pung (Costa Rica), Lana (Panama), Pau de
balsa (Brazil), Palo de balsa (Peru), Tami (Bolivia).
Distribution: Widely distributed in tropical America; throughout the West Indies,
and from southern Mexico, through Central America and into Venezuela, Colombia,
Brazil, Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia. Usually found at lower elevations especially
on bottom-land soils along streams; also in clearings and cutover forests.
Cultivated in plantations.
The Tree
Native trees are 60 to 90 ft high and 2.5 to 4 ft in diameter. On the best sites
may reach a height of 80 ft and a diameter of 2.5 ft in 5 years. Slight
buttresses develop in the larger trees.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood pale brown or reddish; sapwood (comprising
most of the commercial timber) nearly white or oatmeal colored often with a
yellowish or pinkish hue. Texture medium to coarse; grain generally straight;
luster mostly rather high; velvety feel; without distinctive odor or taste.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) varies greatly,
commercial balsa usually between 0.10 to 0.17. Air-dry density about 8 to 14 pcf,
averaging in the trade 10 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First set of data based on the 2-cm standard; second and
third sets on the 2-in. standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
12% (22) 3,300 460 2,250
12% (76) 2,120 425 1,300
12% (70) 2,800 550 1,700
Janka side hardness 75 to 100 lb at 12% moisture content.
Drying and Shrinkage: Kiln-drying of converted stock preferable to air-drying to
minimize splitting and warping. Kiln schedule T10-D4S is suggested for 4/4 stock
and T8-D3S for 8/4. Shrinkage green to ovendry for 17 pcf air-dry material grown
in Puerto Rico: radial 3.0%; tangential 7.6%; volumetric 10.8%. Movement is
reported to be small.
Working Properties: The wood is very easy to work with sharp, thin-edged power
or hand tools. Dull or thick-edged cutters tend to give a woolly finish in
planing. The wood is too soft to hold nails and screws but glues satisfactorily.
Durability: The wood is perishable; vulnerable to dry-wood termite attack; logs
and green lumber are readily attacked by pinhole borers. Prone to blue stain if
not converted rapidly.
Preservation: Heartwood is resistant to preservative treatments; sapwood is
permeable.
Uses: Insulation for heat, vibration, and sound; rafts, lifebelts, floats, core
stock in sandwich constructions, surgical splints, toys, and model airplanes.
Additional Reading (22), (46), (70), (76)
Ocotea rodiaei
Demerara Greenheart
Greenheart
Family: Lauraceae
Other Common Names: Bibiru, Sipiri, Kevatuk (Guyana), Beeberoe, Demerara
groenhart, Sipiroe (Surinam).
Distribution: Commercial quantities mostly in the north central portion of Guyana
but also found in Surinam and in the Venezuelan Guiana. It has also been reported
from the Maroni Region of western French Guiana and from northern Brazil.
The Tree
Grows to a height of 130 ft with diameters up to 40 in., commonly 16 to 24 in.
in diameter with heights of 100 ft. Boles are cylindrical, straight, and clear
for 50 to 75 ft with only moderate taper; usually basally swollen or with low
buttresses.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood varies from light to dark olive green or
blackish, often with intermingling of lighter and darker areas; not sharply
defined from the pale yellow or greenish sapwood. Texture fine and uniform; grain
straight to roey; lustrous; odorless and tasteless when dry.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.80 to 0.91; air-
dry density 62 to 70 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First set of data based on the 2-cm standard; second on
the 2-in. standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (42) 20,300 2,310 9,770
12% 26,200 3,040 13,040
Green (40) 20,900 3,040 10,690
12% 25,500 3,700 13,040
Janka side hardness 1,880 lb for green material and 2,360 lb at 12% moisture
content.
Drying and Shrinkage: The wood dries very slowly with a marked tendency to check
and end split; however, warping is not serious and the total amount of degrade
is not excessive. Lumber over 1 in. in thickness should be air-seasoned prior to
kiln-drying. Kiln schedule T2-C2 is suggested for 4/4 stock and T2-C1 for 8/4.
Shrinkage green to ovendry: radial 8.8%; tangential 9.6%; volumetric 17.1%.
Movement in service is rated medium.
Working Properties: Moderately difficult to work with hand or machine tools
because of its density, dulls cutting edges rather quickly but finishes to a fine
smooth lustrous surface. Turns easily and takes a high polish. A moderately good
steam-bending wood. Gluing gives variable results.
Durability: The heartwood is rated highly resistant to attack by decay fungi and
is also rated as highly resistant to attacks by marine borers but this may vary
from one locality to another, particularly in brackish waters. Highly resistant
to attack by dry-wood termites.
Preservation: Impermeable to preservative treatments.
Uses: Marine and ship construction, lock gates, docks, industrial flooring, vats,
filter press plates, piling, heavy construction, turnery, specialty items
(fishing rods, billiard cue butts).
Additional Reading (22), (40), (42), (46)
M 150 272-14Some European markets still prefer hand hewn greenheart
(Ocotea rodiaei) for heavy marine construction. Work is being
done on a river landing in Guyana.
Ocotea rubra
Determa
Red Louro
Family: Lauraceae
Other Common Names: Determa (Guyana), Wana, Wane (Surinam), Grignon rouge (French
Guiana), Louro vermelho (Brazil).
Distribution: The Guianas, Trinidad, and the lower Amazon region of Brazil.
Occasional to frequent on sandy or loamy soils in Guyana.
The Tree
Trees reach heights of 130 ft with diameters to 5 ft; usually 90 to 100 ft high
with diameters of 2 to 3 ft; boles are generally basally swollen and clear 40 to
80 ft.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood light reddish brown with a golden sheen; well-
defined sapwood, narrow, dull gray or pale yellowish brown. Texture rather
coarse; grain is interlocked to straight; quartersawed lumber is sometimes
attractively figured; dry wood is without distinctive odor or taste.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.52 to 0.59; air-
dry density 40 to 45 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First set of data based on the 2-in. standard; second set
is based on the 2-cm standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (74) 7,820 1,460 3,760
12% 10,470 1,820 5,800
Green (30) 10,300 1,450 5,150
15% 13,600 7,150
Janka side hardness 520 lb for green material and 660 lb at 12% moisture content.
Forest Products Laboratory toughness average for green and dry material is 75
in.-lb (5/8-in. specimen). Amsler toughness 137 in.-lb at 15% moisture content
(2-cm specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: The wood is moderately difficult to air-season; drying at
a moderate rate with slight checking and moderate warp. Kiln schedule T6-D2 is
suggested for 4/4 stock and T3-D1 for 8/4; there is a tendency to warp and check
in the kiln. Shrinkage green to ovendry: radial 3.7%; tangential 7.6%; volumetric
10.4%.
Working Properties: Works readily with hand and machine tools with little dulling
effect; reported tral America, and southern Mexico.
The Tree
Varying with species, tree heights may reach 100 ft with diameters of 16 to 28
in.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood pinkish to reddish, mostly salmon colored,
sometimes yellowish brown, more or less streaked; not always distinct from the
yellowish sapwood. Texture coarse to very coarse; luster usually medium; grain
mostly irregular; feels harsh; without distinctive odor or taste.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) varying with species
from 0.50 to 0.68; air-dry density 37 to 52 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First two sets of data based on the 2-in. standard; third
set on the 1-in. standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (75) 13,510 2,060 6,520
12% 17,860 2,340 9,780
15% (34) 13,800 1,720 6,830
12% (24) 14,200 2,230 8,050
Janka side hardness 1,000 lb to 1,570 lb for dry material. Forest Products
Laboratory toughness average for green and dry material is 151 in.-lb (5/8-in.
specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: Generally the wood air-dries very slowly. Checking and warp
vary from slight to moderate. No information available on kiln schedules.
Shrinkage from green to ovendry: radial 3.6%; tangential 7.4%; volumetric 12.0%.
Working Properties: For most species, reported to saw and machine easily with
fair to good results; surfaces, however, are somewhat rough and difficult to
finish.
Durability: Generally reported to be quite susceptible to attack by decay fungi;
vulnerable to dry-wood termites; and prone to powder-post beetle attack
(sapwood).
Preservation: The heartwood and sapwood respond moderately well to pressure-
vacuum preservative treatments; incising should be used where end-grain exposure
is low.
Uses: Furniture components, interior construction, general carpentry, and utility
veneer.
Additional Reading (24), (34), (71), (7,5)
Oxandra lanceolata
West Indian Lancewood
Family: Annonaceae
Other Common Names: Haya prieta (Puerto Rico), Yaya (Panama, Cuba, Dominican
Republic), Bois de lance (Haiti).
Distribution: Cuba, Jamaica, Hispaniola, and Puerto Rico. Other species mostly
in the Amazon basin.
The Tree
Slender forest trees up to 50 ft in height; but marketed as Lancewood spars about
13 ft long and rarely over 5 in. in diameter at the small end; all sapwood.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Commercially desirable sapwood is pale yellow. Texture
fine; straight grained; luster medium; without distinctive odor or taste.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.81; air-dry
density 62 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (2-in. standard)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
12% (44) 23,700 2,900
Janka side hardness 2,830 lb at 12% moisture content (values are for Oxandra sp.
grown in Panama and with a basic specific gravity of 0.75).
Drying and Shrinkage: Oxandra sp. of Panama is rated moderately difficult to air-
dry with slight checking. No dry kiln schedule information available. Shrinkage
green to ovendry: radial 6.2%; tangential 9.6%; volumetric 15.4%.
. Texture is fine; fairly lustrous; grain commonly
interlocked with a narrow stripe or roey figure; without distinctive odor or
taste. Fine dust produced in machining causes skin irritations in some workers.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.60; air-dry
density 46 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (2-cm standard)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (30) 14,100 1,490 6,500
15% 16,900 7,800
12% (42) 16,200 1,650 9,260
Janka side hardness 1,600 lb at 12% moisture content. Amsler toughness 327 in.-lb
at 15% moisture content (2-cm specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: Reported to dry readily with negligible splitting. Warp not
generally serious though it may become severe in thin stock with irregular grain.
Kiln schedule T3-D2 is suggested for 4/4 stock and T3-D1 for 8/4. Shrinkage green
to ovendry: radial 3.8%; tangential 6.6%; volumetric 10.5%.
Working Properties: The wood is reported to machine easily but care is needed in
planing quartered surfaces. Easy to glue and finish. As noted, may cause
dermatitis in some workers.
Durability: The heartwood is rated very durable in resistance to attack by decay
fungi.
Preservation: Resistant to preservative treatments.
Uses: Fine furniture, interior joinery, decking and flooring, vats and tanks for
foodstuffs, decorative veneers.
Additional Reading (22), (30), (42), (56)
Parinari spp.
Burada
Foengoe
Family: Chrysobalanaceae
Other Common Names: Perefuetano (Colombia), Tostado (Venezuela), Aiomoradan,
Burada (Guyana), Foperties: (First two sets of data based on the 2-in. standard; third
set on the 1-in. standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (73) 12,750 2,120 5,800
12% 20,120 2,610 10,260
Green (73) 14,760 2,660 6,780
12% 21,740 2,930 11,960
12% (24) 19,600 2,480 9,850
Janka side hardness 1,270 lb for green wood and 1,830 lb at 12% moisture content.
Forest Products Laboratory toughness average for green and dry material is 157
in.-lb (5/8-in. specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: The wood air-dries rapidly with only slight checking; warp
is moderate. Kiln schedule T2-C2 for 4/4 stock is suggested, but only after prior
air-drying. Shrinkage green to ovendry: radial 5.9%; tangential 10.0%; volumetric
14.6%.
Working Properties: Because of high silica content and high density the woods are
difficult to machine; cutters are dulled rapidly. However, smooth surfaces are
obtained in all operations with proper maintenance of tools.
Durability: Laboratory pure culture evaluations generally show moderate
durability in resistance to white-rot and brown-rot fungi. Field exposure tests,
however, indicate high susceptibility to decay. Resistant to attack by marine
borers.
Preservation: Reported to be treatable using a pressure-vacuum system, with good
penetration and absorption of preservatives.
Uses: Marine construction; especially when continuously submerged to avoid decay
fungi, ship keels, railroad crossties (treated).
Additional Reading ight, sometimes wavy, roey, or irregular; without distinctive odor
or taste.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) varies with species
from 0.67 to 0.91; air-dry density 50 to 66 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First set of data based on the 2-in. standard; second on
the 2-cm standard; third on the 1-in. standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (75) 13,690 2,000 7,020
12% 19,220 2,270 10,320
Green (30) 21,000 2,560 9,250
15% 26,700 12,200
12% (24) 30,900 3,460 14,500
Janka side hardness ranges from 1,860 lb to 3,920 lb at 12% moisture content.
Forest Products Laboratory toughness at 12% moisture content ranges from 157 to
398 in.-lb (5/8-in. specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: Reports vary, from air-dries easily to moderately
difficult; dries slowly to fairly rapidly; with almost no degrade to some warping
and splitting. Kiln schedule T6-D2 is suggested for 4/4 stock and T3-D1 for 8/4.
Shrinkage green to ovendry: radial 3.2%; tangential 6.1%; volumetric 9.9%.
Stability after manufacture or movement is rated as small.
Working Properties: Moderately difficult to work with either hand or machine
tools, dulls cutters, exudes a gummy resin when heated by dull tools; slow feed
rates and specially hardened cutters are suggested. Turns smoothly, easy to glue,
and takes finishes well.
Durability: Heartwood is rated as highly durable in resistance to attack by decay
fungi; very resistant to dry-wood term 65 ft in height with trunk diameters to 40 in.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood brown, reddish, or pinkish; the darkest
sharply demarcated from the gray or cream-colored sapwood. Texture medium to
coarse; luster medium to high; grain straight to irregular; without distinctive
odor or taste.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) varying with species
from 0.39 to 0.54; air-dry density 30 to 41 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First two sets of data based on the 2-cm standard; third
on the 2-in. standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (30) 9,750 1,360 4,600
15% 12,300 6,400
12% (42) 13,050 1,465 7,020
12% (44) 10,550 1,790
Janka side hardness about 670 lb for green material and 860 lb at 12% moisture
content. Amsler toughness 214 in.-lb at 15% moisture content (2-cm specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: Reported to be easy to moderately difficult to air-dry with
little or no degrade or tendency to warp and collapse. No data on kiln schedules
available. Shrinkage from green to ovendry: radial 4.8%; tangential 9.5%;
volumetric 13.5%.
Working Properties: All species are reported to be easy to work and finish
smoothly; some fuzzy grain in one wood from Panama. P. lingue reported to be
suitable for steam bending.
Durability: Generally reported to have low durability. P. americana reported to
be slightly resistant to dry-wood termite attack.
Preservation: Generally reported to have low permeability and rated moderately
diffr high; spicy resinous scent and taste but losing most of it in drying.
Dust arising in working may cause dermatitis.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.53; air-dry
density 40 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First set of data based on 2-cm standard; second set on
the 2-in. standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (30) 11,100 1,120 4,620
15% 13,250 6,400
Green (40) 7,700 1,080 3,380
12% 12,100 1,410 6,650
Janka side hardness 880 lb for green material a Cara tibama (Venezuela), Pau branco
(Brazil), Palo de lanza blanco (Paraguay), Palo amarillo (Argentina).
Distribution: Cuba, Hispaniola, and Mexico southward to Colombia, Venezuela,
southern Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina; often in pure stands.
The Tree
Sometimes 80 ft in height with trunk diameters of 30 in.; boles are irregular or
fluted.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood lemon yellow, sometimes with a tinge of brown,
occasionally with dark streaks; sapwood yellowish or nearly white. Texture fine
and uniform; grain fairly straight but sometimes irregular; without distinctive
odor or taste.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.77; air-dry
density 59 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: No information available.
Drying and Shrinkage: A kiln schedule similar to T2-B2 has been suggested. Other
than that, no information available.
Working Properties: Reported to be not difficult to work; readily turned and
carved; takes a high polish.
Durability: No information available.
Preservation: No information available.
Uses: Suggested as a substitute for boxwood (Buxus, Gossypiospermum).
Additional Reading (56)
Pinus caribaea
Caribbean Pine
Family: Pinaceae
Other Common Names: Pino (generally in Latin America), Ocote (Mexico, Guatemala,
Honduras, Nicaragua).
Distribution: Belize, Honduras, Nicaragua, Guatemala, Bahama Islands, and Cuba;
widely introduced as a plantation species throughout the world (Australia, South
Africa, Surinam, and elsewhere).
The Tree
Grows to a height of 100 ft and with trunk diameters of 30 to 40 in.,
occasionally larger. Boles are clear up to 70 ft and with moderate taper.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood generally golden brown to red brown and
distinct from the lighter sapwood. Texture somewhat coarse; grain is typically
straight; luster medium; strong resinous odor; growth zones generally clearly
defined but often lacking in juvenile wood. Compression wood often present, at
least in plantation-grown wood.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) varies considerably
and may range from 0.34 to 0.68; air-dry density 26 to 51 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First two sets of data based on the 2-in. standard; third
set on the 1-in. standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (75) 11,190 1,880 4,900
12% 16,690 2,240 8,540
Green (1) 9,000 1,610 4,600
12% 14,700 1,950 7,830
12% (9) 8,830 920
Janka side hardness 980 lb for green material and 1,240 lb at 12% moisture
content. Forest Products Laboratory toughness average for green and dry material
is 251 in.-lb (5/8-in. specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: The timber air-seasons rather slowly with a tendency for
end splitting in thick stock. Low density plantation wood reported to dry rapidly
with no checking and only slight warp. Kiln schedule T1 0-D4S is suggested for
4/4 stock and T8-D3S for 8/4. Shrinkage green to ovendry: radial 6.3%; tangential
7.8%; volumetric 12.9%.
Working Properties: The timber is easy to work with either hand or machine tools;
however, high resin contents may cause some downtime due to gumming of cutters
and machine tables. Takes nails and screws well and glues satisfactorily.
Durability: Durability and resistance to insect attack varies with resin content,
heartwood generally rated moderately durable. Sapwood prone to blue stain.
Preservation: Sapwood is highly permeable and is easily treated by open-tank or
pressure-vacuum systems. Heartwood is rated as moderately resistant and depends
on the resin content.
Uses: General light and heavy construction, carpentry, flooring, joinery, utility
poles and railroad crossties (treated), boat building, vats, utility plywood,
pulp and paper products.
Additional Reading (1), (9), (46), (75)
M 150 272-15 In the highlands of El Salvador, ocote pine (Pinus ococarpa) is
cut into boards by pit sawing. Finished lumber is sent down the
mountainside on the backs of unattended burros.
Pinus oocarpa
Ocote Pine
Family: Pinaceae
Other Common Names: Pino (generally in Latin America), Ocote (Mexico, Guatemala,
Honduras, Nicaragua).
Distribution: Upper mountain slopes and mountain ridge tops from northwestern
Mexico southward to central Nicaragua; most extensively in Guatemala, Honduras,
and Nicaragua.
The Tree
Tree size varies considerably over its range; heights up to 120 ft; diameters 16
to 32 in., occasionally 50 in. Boles are cylindrical, straight, and clear to 50
ft and more.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood light reddish brown; distinct from the pale
yellowish-brown sapwood. Luster medium; grain straight; texture is somewhat fine
and uniform; odor resinous, taste not distinctive; growth rings distinct.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.55; air-dry
density 41 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (2-in. standard)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (73) 7,970 1,740 3,690
12% 14,870 2,250 7,680
Janka side hardness 580 lb for green material and 910 lb at 12% moisture content.
Forest Products Laboratory toughness average for green and dry material is 120
in.-lb (5/8-in specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: The wood air-seasons at a fast to moderate rate with a
minimum of seasoning defects. Kiln schedule T1 0-D4S is suggested for 4/4 stock
and T8-D3S for 8/4. Shrinkage from green to ovendry: radial 4.6%; tangential
7.5%; volumetric 12.3%.
Working Properties: The wood is easy to work with hand and machine tools and is
comparable with the southern yellow pines.
Durability: The heartwood is classified as very durable in resistance to attack
by a white-rot fungus and moderately durable when exposed to a brown rot. The
wood does not weather well without the protection of paint or other coatings.
Preservation: Sapwood is permeable; heartwood resistant.
Uses: General purpose construction timber (light and heavy), flooring, box and
crate lumber, poles and crossties (treated), and other uses similar to that of
the southern yellow pines.
Additional Reading (73)
M 150 272-15In the highlands of El Salvador, ocote pine (Pinus oocarpa) is cut
into boards by pit sawing. Finished lumber is sent down the mountainside on the
backs of unattended burros.
Pinus patula (plantation)
Patula Pine
Family: Pinaceae
Other Common Names: Pino (generally in Latin America), Ocote (Mexico).
Distribution: Restricted to eastern Mexico from Tamaulipas to Oaxaca; a favored
plantation species in Angola, Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, and elsewhere in
Africa. Planted as well in New Zealand, Australia, India, Brazil, and Argentina.
The Tree
Heights to 115 ft with trunk diameter of 18 to 60 in. are reported. Boles
straight and cylindrical.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood in plantation-grown material is not easily
distinguishable from sapwood; one of the whitest of pines; growth rings distinct;
comparatively nonresinous with little odor.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.40 to 0.50; air-
dry density 30 to 38 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First two sets of data based on 2-cm standard (?);third
on the 2-in. standard. Sources: Angola, Madagascar, Tanzania.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
12% (81) 14,200 5,900
12% (81) 14,000 1,210 5,500
12% (81) 12,000 1,860 7,300
Drying and Shrinkage: Reports are variable; material from 30-to 40-year-old trees
seasoned well with little degrade; dries rapidly. Air-drying from green (150 to
200% moisture content) to 20% required 2 to 3 weeks for 4/4 stock. Reported to
kiln-dry rapidly without severe degrade. Kiln schedule similar to T1 3-C4S has
been suggested for 4/4 stock. Shrinkage green to ovendry: radial 4.1%; tangential
7.9%; volumetric 12.6%.
Working Properties: Saws easily and dresses with only a slight tearing of grain
around knots; does not bore, mortise, or turn smoothly. Takes and holds nails
well and makes an excellent glue joint.
Durability: The wood is not resistant to fungus, insect, or termite attack; prone
to blue stain.
Preservation: Reported to be easy to treat by open-tank and pressure-vacuum
systems.
Uses: Particleboard, excelsior-cement panels, pulp and paper products, food
containers, paneling; if juvenile cores are excluded, can be used for light
construction, shingles (treated).
Additional Reading (81)
Piptadenia pittieri
and P. spp.
Carbonero
Family: Leguminosae
Other Common Names: Hediondo, Bocachico, Rabo de iguana (Colombia), Carbonero,
Carabali (Venezuela), Huilca, Tarahuilca (Peru).
Distribution: Abundantly represented in tropical South America; timber described
in this group mostly from Venezuela and Colombia.
The Tree
A medium-sized tree to about 65 ft in height with trunk diameters to 2 ft; boles
straight and clear to 30 to 50 ft.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood brown, yellow brown, or reddish brown; sapwood
light brown to whitish, not always clearly demarcated. Texture fine to medium;
grain straight to irregular; luster high; without distinctive odor or taste.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.57 to 0.67; air-
dry density 44 to 49 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First two sets of data based on the 1-in. standard; the
third set on the 2-in. standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
12% (24) 15,400 1,960 8,250
12% (41) 17,000 8,600
12% (21) 19,700 2,480 9,220
Janka side hardness 1,550 to 1,680 lb at 12% moisture content.
Drying and Shrinkage: Dries rather slowly and prone to severe checking, unless
air-dried carefully. No kiln schedule information available. Shrinkage green to
ovendry: radial 2.6 to 4.4%; tangential 6.4 to 7.5%; volumetric 9.0 to 11.6%.
Working Properties: Rated as fair to good in all machining operations. However,
will tend to tear when planing irregular grain.
Durability: Generally reported to be vulnerable to attack by decay fungi and
insects.
Preservation: Heartwood treatability varies with species; absorptions are fair
to good using a pressure-vacuum system; sapwood is responsive.
Uses: Heavy construction, posts, railroad crossties (treated), furniture,
flooring, turnery.
Additional Reading (21), (24), (41), (6,5)
Piratinera guianensis
syn. Brosimum guianensis
Letterwood
Snakewood
Family: Moraceae
Other Common Names: Cacique carey (Panama), Palo de oro (Venezuela), Burokoro,
Tibicusi (Guyana), Letterhout (Surinam), Bois d'amourette (French Guiana),
Gateado, Muirapenima (Brazil).
Distribution: Guianas, Trinidad, and the Amazon region; a rare to occasional
tree.
The Tree
Unbuttressed small tree, up to 80 ft in height with trunk diameters of 12 to 20
in.; bole is cylindrical and clear for 40 to 50 ft.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood dark red to reddish brown with irregular
radial black markings or with black vertical stripes alone or in conjunction with
the speckles; sapwood very thick, yellowish white, line of demarcation often
irregular and not very sharp. Luster medium to high; texture fine and uniform;
grain straight; odorless and tasteless.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (green volume/ovendry weight) 0.82 to 1.10; air-
dry density 63 to 84 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: No strength values available but reported to be a strong
hardwood that splits rather easily, heartwood is rather brittle.
Drying and Shrinkage: Should be dried carefully and in small pieces; shrinkage
is reported to be rather high.
Working Properties: Works with difficulty because of hardness; turns well and
takes a beautiful polish.
Durability: Heartwood very resistant to attack by decay fungi and dry-wood
termites.
Preservation: No information available.
Uses: Inlay, turnery, fancy handles for cutlewn which
turns a light to golden brown with darker streaks when seasoned; sapwood is thin
and yellowish and clearly differentiated from the heartwood. Texture medium to
coarse; luster medium; either straight or cross grained; without distinctive odor
or taste.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.48; air-dry
density 35 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (2-in. standard)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (46) 8,100 910 3,760
12% 8,860 1,100 5,070
Janka side hardness 750 lb for green material and 850 lb at 12% moisture content.
Forest Products Laboratory toughness average for green and dry material is 99
in.-lb (5/8-in. specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: Reported to air-season rather poorly with little or no
checking but moderate to severe warp. No data available on kiln schedules.
Shrinkage green to ovendry: radial 2.0%; tangential 3.4%; volumetric 6.0%;
exceptionally low for a wood of this density.
Working Properties: The wood saws and machines easily but may develop torn and
fuzzy grain when working pieces with interlocked grain; takes an excellent
finish.
Durability: The wood is rated durable to very durable in resistance to attack by
a white-rot and brown-rot fungus and rated resistant to attack by dry-wood
termites.
Preservation: No information available.
Uses: Fine furniture and cabinet work, millwork, decorative veneer, joinery. The
tree is highly favored for its shade and nutritious pods eaten by cattle, hogs,
and goats.
Additional Reading (45), (46), (73)
Platymiscium spp.
Trebol
Macawood
Family: Leguminosae
Other Common Names: Granadillo (Mexico, Belize, El Salvador, Honduras), Coyote,
Cristobal (Costa Rica), Trebol, Guayacan trebol (Colombia), Roble (Venezuela),
Koenatepi (Surinam), Macacauba, Jacaranda do brejo (Brazil), Cumaseba (Peru).
Distribution: Continental tropical America from southern Mexico to the Brazilian
Amazon region, and Trinidad.
The Tree
Heights to 80 ft with trunk diameters of 28 to 42 in.; boles are straight,
cylindrical, and clear to 60 ft; buttressed.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood bright red to reddish or purplish brown, more
or less distinctly striped; darker specimens look waxy; sharply demarcated from
the nearly white sapwood. Luster medium to high; grain straight to roey; texture
mostly medium to fine, sometimes coarse; without distinctive odor or taste.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) varies with species
from 0.73 to 0.94; air-dry density 55 to 73 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First set of data based on the 2-in. standard, the second
set on the 2-cm standard, and the third set on the 1-in. standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (75) 22,320 3,020 10,540
12% 27,600 3,200 16,100
Green (30) 15,900 2,130 7,460
15% 17,500 8,940
12% (24) 16,800 2,500 9,800
Janka side hardness at 12% moisture content ranges from 1,710 lb. to 3,200 lb.
Amsler toughness at 12% moisture content is 242 in.-rd;
the second on the 2-cm standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (1) 8,700 1,250 4,320
12% 11,800 1,380 6,980
Green (30) 6,500 780 2,970
15% 8,550 4,600
12% (62) 15,600 2,080
Janka side hardness at 12% moisture content 760 lb. Amsler toughness at 15%
moisture content is 70 in.-lb. (2-cm specimen) for Brazilian material.
Drying and Shrinkage: The wood air-seasons rapidly with little or no warping or
checking. Kiln schedule T10-D4S is suggested for 4/4 sFrom Vera Cruz, Mexico, through Central America and southward to
Colombia, Ecuador, and Bolivia.
The Tree
Sometimes up to 100 ft tall with trunk diameters to 37 in. above the buttress.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood absent or not clearly distinguishable from the
yellowish-white sapwood which becomes brownish or oatmeal on exposure. Luster
rather high; texture coarse; grain straight to interlocked; without distinctive
odor or taste. A silica content of 7.32% is reported.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.33; air-dry
density 25 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (2-in. standard)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
The Tree
Attains a height of 100 ft and diameters of about 40 in.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood yellowish-or grayish-brown with more or less
reddish cast; sapwood narrow, yellowish or grayish, not always distinct from the
heartwood. Texture fine to medium, uniform; grain usually straight, sometimes
interlocked; luster low; without characteristic odor but taste sometimes bitter
or astringent.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.68; air-dry
density 52 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (2-in. standard)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (73) 11,420 1,740 4,360
12% 17,770 2,320 7,660
Janka side hardness 1,440 lb for green material and 1,880 lb for dry. Forest
Products Laboratory toughness average for green and dry material is 230 in.-lb
(5/8-in. specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: Drying is rapid but may result in severe checking and
moderate warp; a reduced drying rate may minimize degrade. No information on kiln
schedules. Shrinkage green to ovendry: radial 4.4%; tangential 10.5%; volumetric
14.8%.
Working Properties: Works easily and finishes to a smooth surface. Good steam-
bending properties.
Durability: Heartwood is rated durable in test exposures to white-rot and brown-
rot organisms, but is not suggested for uses where high durability is required.
Preservation: No information available, but is reported to be resistant to
moisture absorption.
Uses: General construction, heavy-duty flooring, also suggested for tight
cooperage, tool handles.
Additional Rendard)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (73) 5,920 940 2,460
12% 8,560 1,110 4,290
12% (44) 8,900 1,180
Janka side hardness 440 lb for green material and 630 lb at 12% moisture content.
Forest Products Laboratory toughness average for green and dry material is 88
in.-lb (5/8-in. specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: Wood dries rapidly with no checking and only slight
warping. Collapse is reported to occur sometimes in the darker streaks in the
heartwood, particularly during kiln-drying. Kiln schedule T3-C2 is suggested for
4/4 stock and T3-C1 for 8/4. Contro data based on the 2-cm standard, the second
set on the 2-in. standard, and the third set on the 1-in. standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (42) 11,000 1,465 5,280
12% 16,850 1,765 9,200
Green (40) 9,300 1,510 4,370
12% 11,800 1,650 6,960
12% (24) 15,700 1,860 8,700
Janka side hardness at 12% moisture content ranged from 720 lb to 1,280 lb.
Forest Products Laboratory toughness at 12% moisture content is 167 in.-lb (5/8-
in. specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: Reports vary from fairly easy to air-dry to moderately
difficult. Kiln schedule T3-C2 is suggested for 4/4 stock and T3-C1 for 8/4.
Shrinkage green to ovendry: radial 4.2%; tangential 6.8%; volumetric 10.7%.
Working Properties: Logs should be debarked prior to sawing to avoid resin
accumulation on cutters and equipment. Dry wood works easily and rates fair to
good in all operations. Cuts easily into veneers but tends to buckle on drying.
Some species abrasive because of silica content.
Durability: Generally reported to have low resistance to attack by decay fungi
and vulnerable to dry-wood termites. No appreciable resistance to marine borers.
Preservation: Generally heartwood is reported as difficult to treat with
pressure-vacuum systems; sapwood is responsive.
Uses: Furniture, millwork, veneer and plywood, general construction,
particleboard, a possible substitute for birch. incense-like resin obtained from
wounds to the bark and marketed as "elemi."
Additional Reading (24), (40), (42), (46)
Pseudosamanea guachapele
Guachapele
Frijolillo
Family: Leguminosae
Other Common Names: Cadeno (Guatemala), Frijolillo (Honduras), Tabaca, Guamarillo
(Colombia), Samanigua (Venezuela), Guachapele (Ecuador).
Distribution: From Guatemala southward to Venezuela and Ecuador. Generally grows
in dry areas and seeds naturally in pastures and abandoned fields. Often used for
shade in coffee plantations.
The Tree
A large tree with a spreading crown, well-formed bole without significant
buttresses.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood light orange brown when freshly cut becoming
yellow brown or brown with a golden luster on drying; rather sharply demarcated
from the thin whitish sapwood. Texture medium to rather coarse; grain generally
interlocked; without distinctive odor or taste.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.56; air-dry
density 41 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (2-in. standard)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (73) 8,190 1,200 3,930
12% 10,750 1,150 6,570
Janka side hardness 1,030 lb when green and 1,040 lb at 12% moisture content.
Forest Products Laboratory toughness average for green and air-dry material is
130 in.-lb (5/8-in. specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: Reported to be somewhat difficult to air season. A moderate
rate of drying resulted in some warping and slight checking. No data available
on kiln schedules. Shrinkage green to ovendry: radial 2.9%; tangential 4.5%;
volumetric 7.6%; values are unusually lies and southern
Mexico to northern Argentina. Some species in swamplands, others in uplands, and
still others common on abandoned farmlands and on cutover forest lands.
The Tree
Varies with species up to 90 ft in height with diameters to 36 in., commonly to
16 in. In some, bole is usually fluted with high sinuous, irregular plank
buttresses.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Wood yellowish or whitish; sapwood indistinct; traumatic
heartwood dark brown or purplish. Texture medium to coarse; luster medium; grain
straight to irregular; without distinctive odor or taste.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) varies considerably
with species from 0.28 to 0.60; air-dry density 22 to 44 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First two sets of data based on the 2-in. standard; the
third set on the 1-in. standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (74) 9,580 1,580 4,140
12% 16,020 2,000 7,390
12% (64) 7,100 1,090
12% (24) 10,450 1,430 5,420
Janka side hardness at 12% moisture content varies with species from 275 lb to
1,380 lb. Forest Products Laboratory toughness average for green and dry material
is 220 in.-lb (5/8-in. specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: Most species are relatively easy to air-season with only
slight checking and moderate warp, particularly in thinner boards. No data on
kiln schedules are available. Shrinkage from green to ovendry: radial 3.9%;
tangential 6.8%; volumetric 10.8%.
Working Properties: Easy to wiameter 2 to 3 ft, exceptionally 4 ft.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood reddish brown suggesting mahogany often with
darker striping; not sharply demarcated from the yellowish-brown sapwood. Luster
medium to high; texture medium; grain often roey; without distinctive odor or
taste.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.66; air-dry
density 50 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (2-cm standard)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (30) 11,900 1,610 5,650
15% 16,900 7,660
Janka side hardness for green material 1,340 lb. Amsler toughness 354 in.-lb. at
15% moisture content (2-cm specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: No data available on drying characteristics or on kiln
schedules. Shrinkage green to ovendry: radial 3.4%; tangential 6.0%; volumetric
10.0%. Reported to hold its place well after manufacture.
Working Properties: Rather easily worked and finishing very smoothly.
Durability: Reported to be fairly durable.
Preservation: No information available.
Uses: Fine furniture and cabinet work, turnery, interior trim, cooperage, and
steam-bent work.
Additional Reading (30), (56), (69)
Qualea spp.
Mandioqueira
Gronfoeloe
Family: Vochysiaceae
Other Common Names: Florecillo (Venezuela), Kouali, Grignon fou (French Guiana),
Gronfoeloe (Surinam), Mandio, Mandioqueira, Quaruba (Brazil).
Distribution: The genus is represented throughout tropical America from southern
Mexico to Peru, but most abundantly in the Guianas and Brazil.
The Tree
Trees to heights of 100 ft, sometimes attaining 200 ft; with diameters to 25 in.,
reaching 40 in. occasionally. Clear stems extend to 60 or 70 ft. Light to heavily
buttressed.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood pinkish brown to reddish brown, occasionally
olive brown; sometimes sharply demarcated from the grayish or yellowish sapwood.
Luster golden in some species, medium in others; texture medium to decidedly
coarse; grain straight to interlocked; without distinctive odor or taste.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) varies with species
from 0.49 to 0.60; air-dry density 37 to 46 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First and third sets of data based on the 2-in. standard;
second set on the 2-cm standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (75) 10,510 2,030 5,200
12% 14,610 2,200 7,570
Green (42) 11,700 1,850 6,250
12% 20,000 2,560 11,800
12% (44) 18,000 2,580
Janka side hardness for air-dry material ranges from 900 to 1,730 lb. Forest
Products Laboratory toughness average for green and dry material is 156 in.-lb
(5/8-in. specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: The wood is reported to be moderately difficult to air-
season and kiln-dry. It seasons rapidly but with some warping and slight
checking. Care in stacking and mild drying conditions are suggested. Kiln
schedule T3-D2 may be used for 4/4 stock and T3-D1 for 8/4. Shrinkage green to
ovendry: radial 4.4%; tangential 8.4%; volumetric 11.4%.
Working Properties: The wood is generally rated as moderately difficult to work
particularly when roey grain is present; saws and other cutting edges dull rather
quickly because of silica accumulations, 0.10% is reported. Glues satisfactorily.
Durability: Heartwood somewhat variable in decay resistance, generally is rated
as moderately durable and is not suitable for continuously damp conditions. Also
prone to staining during drying. Weathering characteristics are rated as only
fair and severe surface checking develops when unpainted wood is exposed. Q.
albiflora is rated as moderately resistant to dry-wood termites.
Preservation: The wood is rated as moderately difficult to rather easy to
preserve, varying with species.
Uses: Joinery, millwork, furniture, veneer and plywood, general construction, and
flooring.
Additional Reading (42), (44), (75)
Quercus spp.
Roble
Encino
Oak
Family: Fagaceae
Other Common Names: Ahuatl, Cucharillo, Encino (Mexico), Roblecito (Guatemala),
Encino negro (Honduras), Roble encino, Roble colorado (Costa Rica), Mamecillo
(Panama), Robe, Roble amarillo (Colombia).
Distribution: In tropical America from Mexico southward through Central America
to Colombia. In the lower latitudes confined mostly to the high mountains.
The Tree
A large tree that may reach a height of 90 ft and a diameter of 5 ft; more
commonly with a height to 65 ft and diameters up to 30 in. Stems are straight and
cylindrical.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood yellowish brown to reddish brown; sapwood
whitish to light brown. Grain is generally straight; texture coarse; luster
usually low; without distinctive odor or taste when seasoned. Because of the
broad rays, the wood is highly figured as in the temperate oaks but pores in
radial or diagonal rows rather than ring-porous.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) varies with species
from 0.57 to 0.82; air-dry density 44 to 62 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First two sets of data based on the 2-in. standard; the
third set on the 2-cm standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
12% (44) 22,400 2,960
12% (61) 16,400 2,840
12% (71) 29,000
Janka side hardness for dry material ranges from 1,600 lb. to 3,200 lb.
Drying and Shrinkage: The wood is very difficult to air-season, prone to severe
checking, warping, and collapse; rate of drying is slow. To minimize drying
problems, lumber should be quarter-sawn. Kiln schedule T2-C2 is suggested for 4/4
stock and T2-C1 for 8/4. Shrinkage green to ovendry (including collapse):.
The Tree
Medium to large-sized trees up to 100 ft high with stem diameters to 36 in. and
more. Cylindrical boles clear to 65 ft above the few low thick buttresses.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood dark yellow brown, grayish-or pinkish-brown
merging gradually into the sapwood; surfaces sometimes specked with resinous
exudations. Luster medium to rather low; grain straight to irregular and roey;
texture medium to coarse; odorless and tasteless.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.72; air-dry
density 55 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First set of data based on the 2-cm standard; second set
on the 1-in. standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (33) 13,000 1,800 5,850
15% 18,800 8,650
12% (41) 18,400 9,050
Janka side hardness for green material 1,250 lb. Amsler toughness at 15% moisture
content 425 in.-lb (2-cm specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: Dries rapidly but is reported to be moderately difficult
to air-season; tending to warp and check. No data available on kiln schedules.
Shrinkage green to ovendry is very high: radial 4.0%; tangential 14.2%;
volumetric 16.6%. Movement also reported as rather high.
Working Properties: Reports on workability vary with species from moderate to
high resistance to cutting to machining fairly well; reports on ease of finishing
also variable.
Durability: Species in Surinam rated durable to attack by decay fungi and fairly
resistant to dry-wood termites. Species in Colombia aremeters 18 to
24, sometimes up to 36 in., with clear boles to 30 to 40 ft. Stems develop stilt-
like roots forming impenetrable thickets.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood light red, deepening to dark red or reddish
brown, sometimes purplish; uniform or more or less striped; rather sharply
defined from the yellowish, grayish, or pinkish sapwood. Texture fine to medium;
grain straight to irregular; luster low; without distinctive odor or taste.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.89; air-dry
density 67 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (2-in. standard)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (49) 15,200 2,300 6,490
12% 21,700 2,950 10,750
12% (44) 24,000 3,260
15% (5) 28,400 3,480 13,500
Janka side hardness 2,240 lb for green material and 2,760 lb at 12% moisture
content.
Drying and Shrinkage: Drying rate is moderate during air-seasoning; warp is
severe as is surface and end checking. No data available on kiln schedules.
Shrinkage green to ovendry: radial 5.0%; tangential 10.7%; volumetric 14.3%.
Working Properties: Generally difficult to work because of its high density; can
finish smoothly where grain is straight.
Durability: Heartwood is reported to be resistant to attack by decay fungi but
not to marine borers and dry-wood termites.
Preservation: Both heartwood and sapwood resistant to impregnation.
Uses: Boat construction, general heavy construction, charcoal, railroad
crossties, turnery, bark has a high tannin codry
density 36 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First two sets of data based on the 2-in. standard, the
third on the 1-in. standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (73) 7,700 1,480 3,200
12% 10,790 1,680 6,120
12% (44) 12,000 2,140
12% (41) 11,900 6,150
Janka side hardness 520 lb for green material and 700 lb for dry. Forest Products
Laboratory toughness average for green and dry material 84 in.-lb (5/8-in.
specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: The wood is reported to air-dry rapidly with only slight
warping extends over northern Argentina, western Paraguay,
a small portion of Bolivia, and to the interior of the state of Bahia in Brazil.
The Tree
Scrubby growth 30 to 50 ft high; 12 to 36 in. in diameter. Trunks are often bent
and twisted and swollen at the base. S. balansae reported to reach a height of
80 ft and a diameter of 60 in.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood light red, deepening to brick red, uniform or
with black streaks; distinct but not sharply demarcated from the yellowish
sapwood. Luster low to medium; texture fine and uniform; grain irregular, often
roey; odor not distinctive, taste astringent. Heartwood contains 20 to 30%
tannin.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 1.00; air-dry
density 75 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (Standard not known)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
15% (69) 19,800 2,190
15% (69) 13,800 1,950 8,900
Drying and Shrinkage: Reported to check and warp severely, particularly when cut
into thin boards. A kiln schedule similar to T1 -B1 has been suggested. No data
available on shrinkage values.
Working Properties: Very difficult to work, especially when dry, but takes a high
natural polish.
Durability: Highly durable, though standing trees are often defective as a result
of heart rot.
Preservation: No data available.
Uses: Tannin extraction, railroad crossties, heavy construction, fenceposts,
poles, fuel.
Additional Reading (56), (69)
Sclerolobium spp.
Djedoe
Yawaredan
Family: Leguminosae
Other Common Names: Jawaledan, Yawarridana (Guyana), Rode Djedoe, Witte Djedoe,
Djaditja (Surinam), Passariuva, Tachy, Tachyrana (Brazil).
Distribution: Tropical Brazil, eastern Peru, the Guianas, and Venezuela.
The Tree
Sometimes reaches a height of 130 ft with diameters to 28 in. Boles are
cylindrical and clear to 60 ft and more.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood pale to rather dark brown with a pinkish,
yellowish, or olive tinge; scarcely distinct from the sapwood. Luster high;
texture medium to coarse; grain straight to interlocked; tasteless but some
species have a mild scent.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.47; air-dry
density 35 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First and third sets of data based on the 2-in. standard,
second set on the 2-cm standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (75) 7,750 1,750 3,850
12% 13,150 2,040 6,530
Green (30) 8,150 1,300 3,620
15% 11,750 5,800
15% (34) 10,380 1,460 5,550
Janka side hardness about 700 lb for dry material. Forest Products Laboratory
toughness average for green and dry material is 159 in.-lb (5/8-in. specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: Reported to be easy to air-season in that drying rates are
rapid; however, this does cause moderate warp and slight checking. No data
available on kiln schedules. Shrinkage green to ovendry: radial 4.4%; tangential
8.9%; volumetric 12.3%.
Working Properties: The wood is easily worked; @-&F17-->The Tree
Sometimes 65 ft in height with a trunk diameter of 20 in.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood rather dark brown, usually poorly developed;
sapwood usually becoming red, pink, or violet rose throughout or more often
variegated and often fading to yellowish brown on the surface. Luster medium to
low; texture rather fine and uniform; grain straight to irregular; odorless when
dry, taste slightly bitter.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.52; air-dry
density 40 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (2-cm standard)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (32) 10,800 1,200 5,030 (Fr. Guiana).
Distribution: Northern South America from Venezuela and the Guianas to the Amazon
region of Brazil, also in Trinidad and Tobago.
The Tree
A large unbuttressed tree reaching a height of 140 ft and diameters of 20 to 24
in., occasionally 36 in. Boles are straight, cylindrical, strongly tapered,
frequently clear to 70 to 90 ft.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood not differentiated from the whitish or straw-
colored sapwood, with occasional oily streaks. Luster rather high; texture medium
and uniform; grain usually straight; without odor but with a bitter quinine-like
taste. Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.38; air-dry
density 27 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First set of data based on 2-in. standard, second set on
the 1-in. standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (74) 6,310 1,140 2,970
12% 8,930 1,240 4,840
12% (24) 8,350 1,290 4,900
Janka side hardness 390 lb for green material and 440 lb at 12% moisture content.
Forest Products Laboratory toughness average for green and dry material 66 in.-lb
(5/8-in. specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: Reported to be easy to air-season, boards dry rapidly with
little or no degrade. No information on kiln schedules available. Shrinkage from
green to ovendry: radial 2.3%; tangential 5.0%; volumetric 8.0%.
Working Properties: The wood works easily and machines to a smooth clean surface.
Freshly felled logs tend to split in sawing due to internal stresses. The wood
is easy tto Peru
and Brazil; in part cultivated or naturalized. The tree is planted in many
tropical areas.
The Tree
The tree is up to 130 ft in height with diameters to 48 in. Boles with basal
swelling, at times coarsely furrowed, clear 60 to 80 ft.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood cream to buff colored, not distinguished from
the sapwood. Luster medium; texture medium to coarse; grain straight to slightly
irregular; odorless and tasteless.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.40; air-dry
density 29 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First two sets of data based on the 2-in. standard, the
third set on the 1-in. standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (73) 6,400 1,160 2,560
12% 8,810 1,280 4,410
12% (44) 8,050 1,330
12% (24) 9,500 6,450
Janka side hardness at 12% moisture content ranges from 335 to 510 lb. Forest
Products Laboratory toughness average for green and dry material is 74 in.-lb.
(5/8-in. specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: The wood air-dries rapidly but develops moderate warp and
slight checking. No data are available on kiln schedules. Shrinkage green to
ovendry: radial 2.7%; tangential 4.7%; volumetric 7.5%.
Working Properties: The wood is easy to work and generally finishes smoothly;
fuzzy grain may develop in some operations.
Durability: The wood has low resistance to attack by decay fungi and insects and
is particularly prone to blue stain. Logs need to be promptly processllowish sapwood. Luster medium; texture
medium; grain straight to irregular; without distinctive odor or taste.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.33; air-dry
density 25 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First two sets of data based on the 2-in. standard, the
third on the 1-in. standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (75) 4,460 980 2,140
12% 7,110 960 4,230
12% (44) 4,900 965
12% (24) 5,900 3,680
Janka side hardness at 12% moisture content ranges from 270 to 530 lb. Forest
Products Laboratory toughness average for green and dry material 48 in.-lb. (5/8-
in. specimen). Drying and Shrinkage: Reported to air-dry well if dried slowly;
prone to collapse. No data available on kiln schedules. Shrinkage green to
ovendry: radial 3.7%; tangential 8.3%; volumetric 11.8%.
Working Properties: Generally reported to be easy to work with both hand and
machine tools; timber from Panama showed considerable fuzzy grain after planing.
Durability: No resistance to attack by decay fungi or insects, also prone to blue
stain.
Preservation: One report describes this wood as very easy to treat obtaining high
absorption and deep and uniform penetration, another rates this wood as
moderately difficult.
Uses: Boxes and crates, interior construction, plywood, particleboard, millwork.
Additional Reading (24), (44), (75)
Sterculia pruriens
Sterculia
Family: Sterculiaceae
Other Common Names: Yahu, Maho, Manmaho (Guyana), Chicha brava, Capote, Envireira
(Brazil).
Distribution: Occurs in the Guianas and northern Brazil.
The Tree
Sometimes reaches a height of 130 ft and trunk diameters of 36 in.; more commonly
100 ft in height with diameters around 24 in. Boles are clear to 60 to 70 ft with
low taper.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood whitish or grayish and not distinct from the
sapwood. Texture medium to coarse; grain usually straight; somewhat lustrous;
without distinctive odor or taste.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.46; air-dry
density 37 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First set of data based on the 2-in. standard, second on
the 2-cm standard, third on the 1-in. standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (40) 9,000 1,890 4,350
12% 9,700 1,930 8,230
12% (42) 12,400 1,605 7,100
12% (24) 12,600 1,780 6,550
Janka side hardness at 12% moisture content ranges from 770 to 825 lb. Forest
Products Laboratory toughness at 12% moisture content 116 in.-lb (5/8-in.
specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: Reported to be moderately difficult to air-season, dries
rapidly but tends to warp. Kiln schedule T2-D4 is suggested for 4/4 stock and T2-
D3 for 8/4. Shrinkage green to ovendry: radial 4.7%; tangential 9.9%; volumetric
15.4%. Movement after manufacture is rated as large.
Working Properties: The wood works easily with both hand and machine tools; a
smooth finish is obtained if sharp cutters are used.
Durability: Not resistant to attack by decay fungi and very susceptible to both
dry-wood and subterranean termites. Also prone to blue stain.
Preservation: Reported to be moderately resistant to penetration using creosote
oils.
Uses: Light construction work, interior joinery, boxes and crates, pulp and
paper.
Additional Reading (24), (40), (42), (46)
Swartzia spp.
Wamara
Bannia
Family: Leguminosae
Other Common Names: Naranjillo (Mexico, Honduras, Panama), Parakusan (Guyana),
Gandoe, Ijzerhart (Surinam), Alma negra (Colombia), Orura barrialera (Venezuela),
Icoje (Peru), Pau ferro, Mututy (Brazil).
Distribution: Southern Mexico, through Central America, the West Indies and
southward to northern South America; especially abundant in the Guianas and the
Amazon region.
The Tree
Size varies considerably with species, some reaching heights of 110 ft with trunk
diameters commonly to 24 in., but reaching 36 in.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood dark brown, reddish brown, or nearly black,
in solid color or somewhat variegated; sharply demarcated from the nearly white
to yellowish sapwood. Texture very fine to medium; luster usually medium; grain
straight to irregular; without distinctive odor or taste. Dust irritating to some
workers.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.87 to 1.02; air-
dry density 65 to 75 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First and third sets of data based on the 2-in. standard,
the second set on the 2-cm standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (75) 22,870 3,000 12,930
12% 26,370 3,630 15,440
Green (42) 21,400 2,480 10,500
12% 32,600 3,220 16,500
15% (34) 23,460 2,620 12,900
Janka side hardness 3,325 to 4,060 lb for dry material. Forest Products
Laboratory toughness average for green and dry material is 260 in.-lb (5/8-in.
specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: Generally reported to be moderately difficult to air-dry
because of checking and warp. Kiln schedule T2-C2 is suggested for 4/4 stock and
T2-C1 for 8/4. Shrinkage green to ovendry: radial 3.9%; tangential 7.6%;
volumetric 11.2%. Movement after manufacture of some species is reported high.
Working Properties: The woods are difficult to work because of their high
density, but finish very smoothly and takes a high polish. Workers should be
protected from the irritating dust of some species (S. bannia).
Durability: Heartwood is very resistant to attack by decay fungi and resistant
to dry-wood termites. Not resistant to marine borers.
Preservation: No information available.
Uses: inlay, parquet flooring, turnery, furniture, cabinetwork, violin bows,
specialty items, suggested as a substitute for ebony.
Additional Reading (34), (42), (46), (75)
Swietenia macrophylla
Honduras Mahogany
Caoba
Family: Meliaceae
Other Common Names: Caoba (throughout Latin America), Acajou (French-speaking
areas).
Distribution: Southern Mexico southward to Colombia, Venezuela, and parts of the
upper Amazon and its tributaries in Peru, Bolivia, and Brazil. Plantations have
been established within its natural range and elsewhere.
The Tree
Sometimes 150 ft in height and 6 ft and more in diameter above the heavy
buttresses; boles are clear from 60 to 80 ft.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood reddish, pinkish, salmon colored, or yellowish
when fresh; deepening with age to deep rich red or brown; distinct from the
yellowish or whitish sapwood. Luster high and golden; texture rather fine to
coarse; grain straight to roey, wavy, or curly, often with an attractive figure;
odor and taste not distinctive.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.40 to 0.68; air-
dry density 30 to 52 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First two sets of data based on the 2-in. standard, the
third on the 2-cm standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (73) 8,960 1,280 4,340
12% 11,590 1,420 6,470
Green (73) 8,960 1,340 4,340
12% 11,460 1,500 6,780
12% (42) 12,000 1,270 6,400
Janka side hardness 740 lb for green material and 800 lb for dry. Forest Products
Laboratory toughness average for green and dry material 82 in.-lb (5/8-in.
specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: The wood can be air-seasoned and kiln-dried easily without
appreciable warping or checking. Kiln schedule T6-D4 is suggested for 4/4 stock
and T3-D3 for 8/4. Shrinkage green to ovendry: radial 3.0%; tangential 4.1%;
volumetric 7.8%. Movement after manufacture is rated as small.
Working Properties: Very easy to work with hand and machine tools, torn and
chipped grain is common with figured material. Easy to finish and takes an
excellent polish. Slices and rotary cuts into fine veneer.
Durability: Generally heartwood rates as durable in resistance to a brown-rot and
a white-rot fungus. Moderately resistant to dry-wood termites andstiltroots
with numerous elbow buttresses.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood yellowish- , grayish- , or greenish brown or
striped in these shades; distinct from the whitish sapwood. Luster somewhat
medium, variable; texture coarse; grain straight to irregular; without
distinctive odor or taste; has a mealy appearance because of the abundant soft
parenchyma tissue. Silica reported to range up to 0.21%.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.58; air-dry
density 44 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First and third sets of data based on the 2-in. standard,
the second set on the 2-cm standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (75) 11,180 1,960 5,160
12% 16,860 2,460 8,820
Green (42) 12,450 1,890 6,040
12% 19,000 2,060 9,650
12% (44) 16,500 2,360
Janka side hardness for green material 940 lb, 1,120 lb at 12% moisture content.
Forest Products Laboratory toughness average for green and dry material is 157
in.-lb (5/8-in. specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: Generally reported to air season rapidly but with moderate
warping and checking. Kiln schedule T3-C2 is suggested for 4/4 stock and T3-C1
for 8/4. Shrinkage from green to ovendry: radial 5.7%; tangential 9.7%;
volumetric 15.6%.
Working Properties: Very easy to work with both hand and machine tools, but
surfaces tend to roughen in planing and shaping.
Durability: Heartwood is durable in ground contact; only moderately resistant to
dry-w height with trunk diameters of 6 ft. Frequently to
heights of 100 ft and diameters of 2 to 3 ft. Boles are clear to 60 ft and more,
with or without buttresses.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood olive brown to blackish, often with lighter
or darker striping, often covered with a yellow powder; sharply demarcated from
the whitish or yellowish sapwood. Texture fine to medium; luster low to medium;
grain straight to very irregular; rather oily looking; without distinctive odor
or taste.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.85 to 0.97; air-
dry density 66 to 75 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First and third sets of data based on the 2-in. standard,
the second on the 1-in. standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (73) 22,560 2,920 10,350
12% 25,360 3,140 13,010
12% (24) 25,200 3,010 14,000
12% (44) 28,000 3,350
Janka side hardness 3,060 lb for green material and 3,680 lb at 12% moisture
content. Forest Products Laboratory toughness average for green and dry material
is 404 in.-lb (5/8-in. specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: Generally reported to air-dry rapidly with only slight
checking and warping. Kiln schedule T3-C1 is suggested for 4/4 stock. Shrinkage
green to ovendry: radial 6.6%; tangential 8.0%; volumetric 13.2%. Movement after
manufacture is rated as small.
Working Properties: Moderately difficult to work especially with handtools; has
a blunting effect on cutting edges, finishes smoothly except where grain is very
roey. The fine yellow dust produced in most operations may cause dermatitis in
some workers.
Durability: Heartwood is very resistant to attack by decay fungi and termites;
not resistant to marine borers. T. guayacan however, is reported to have good
resistance in Panama waters.
Preservation: The wood is reported to be extremely resistant to preservation
treatments.
Uses: Railroad crossties, heavy construction, tool handles, turnery, industrial
flooring, textile mill items, decorative veneers.
Additional Reading (24), (44), (46), (73)
Tabebuia spp. (Roble group)
Roble
Mayflower
Family: Bignoniaceae
Other Common Names: Roble (Spanish America), Amapa, Roble blanco (Mexico), Roble
blanco, Roble de sabana (Costa Rica), Roble del rio (Colombia), Apamate
(Venezuela).
Distribution: From the West Indies and southern Mexico to Venezuela and Ecuador.
Inhabits various sites from wet lowlands to dry mountainsides.
The Tree
A medium-sized tree 40 to 60 ft high, but occasionally reaching a height of 90
ft; diameters commonly 18 to 24 in., sometimes reaching 36 in.; buttresses often
extend 7 to 10 ft above the ground; widely planted as an ornamental.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood light brown to golden; not clearly
differentiated from the sapwood. Luster low to medium; texture medium to rather
coarse; grain straight to roey; without distinctive odor or taste when dry.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.52; air-dry
density 40 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First two sets of data based on the 2-in. standard, the
third set on the 1-in. standard.)<
lit>
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (74) 10,770 1,450 4,910
12% 13,780 1,600 7,340
Green (40) 9,600 1,620 5,030
12% 12,500 1,750 6,010
12% (41) 14,700 7,050
Janka side hardness for green wood 910 lb, 960 lb at 12% moisture content. Forest
Products Laboratory toughness average for green and dry material is 147 in.-lb
(5/8-in. specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: The wood air-seasons and kiln-dries rapidly with little or
no checking and warping. Kiln schedule T6-D2 is suggested for 4/4 stock and T3-D1
for 8/4. Shrinkage from green to ovendry: radial 3.6%; tangential 6.1%;
volumetric 9.5%.
Working Properties: The wood has excellent machining characteristics but some
care is required in planing to prevent torn and chipped grain. Finishes well,
easy to glue. With care
to 16 in. Fluted buttresses range up to 12 ft in height (T. insignis). T.
stenocalyx is a larger tree growing to a height of 150 ft with trunk diameters
to 3 ft.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood brownish with reddish or olive hue, also
creamy or yellowish, varying in different specimens; not sharply demarcated from
the sapwood. Luster rather high; texture medium and uniform; grain fairly
straight; without distinctive odor or taste.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.57; air-dry
density 42 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First set of data based on the 2-in. standard, the second
set on the 1-in. standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (40) 13,700 2,300 6,200
12% 14,900 2,260 8,240
12% (24) 18,600 2,040 9,340
Janka side hardness for dry material 1,160 to 1,400 lb. Forest Products
Laboratory toughness at 12% moisture content 126 in.-lb (5/8-in. specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: Reported to be easy to air season. No data available on
kiln schedules. Shrinkage green to ovendry: radial 4.7%; tangential 7.2%;
volumetric 10.8%.
Working Properties: Dry lumber machines easily with smooth clean surfaces in all
operations. Green logs are reported to spring badly in sawing.
Durability: The wood does not have decay resistance and is vulnerable to termite
attack.
Preservation: Both sapwood and heartwood are reported to have good absorption and
penetration of preservatives using either a pressure-vacuum or open-tank system.
Uses: Tool handles, furnable from yellowish olive to golden brown,
sometimes with prominent reddish-brown stripes; not readily separated from the
yellowish sapwood. Luster medium to rather high; texture medium; grain roey;
without distinctive odor or taste in dry material.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.58 to 0.73; air-
dry density 44 to 56 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First set of data based on the 2-in. standard, the second
on the 2-cm standard, and the third on the 1-in. standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (74) 12,130 2,010 5,530
12% 17,750 2,300 9,540
Green (42) 13,600 1,890 6,700
12% 19,100 2,130 10,350
12% (24) 25,200 2,910 11,600
Janka side hardness at 12% moisture content 1,610 to 2,100 lb. Forest Products
Laboratory toughness average for green and dry material is 187 in.-lb (5/8-in.
specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: Very variable in seasoning characteristics; some material
reported easy to dry with little or no degrade; other material dried with
difficulty and with considerable warp and checking. Kiln schedule T3-C2 is
suggested for 4/4 stock and T3-C1 for 8/4. Shrinkage green to ovendry: radial
6.4%; tangential 8.7%; volumetric 14.9%.
Working Properties: Generally reported to be somewhat fair to difficult to work
with hand and machine tools; straight-grained material planes well, some tearing
occurs on strongly roey surfaces.
Durability: Pure culture tests showed the wood to be durable to both a whit0-->
Varies with species but may reach a height of 100 ft with diameters up to 28 in.
Boles with a few buttresses, of moderately good form, and clear for 30 to 40 ft.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood orange brown; rather sharply demarcated from
the yellowish-brown sapwood. Luster medium to rather high; texture fine; grain
mostly irregular to distinctly roey; without distinctive taste, but with fragrant
balsamic scent. A silica content of 0.13% is reported.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) varies with species
from 0.63 to 0.78; air-dry density 48 to 61 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First two sets of data based on the 2-in. standard, the
third set on the 1-in. standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (74) 12,380 1,650 5,460
12% 16,090 1,890 8,380
Green (25) 12,300 1,940 6,800
12% 15,200 2,180 8,300
12% (24) 19,400 2,410 10,200
Janka side hardness at 12% moisture content 1,770 to 2,170 lb. Forest Products
Laboratory toughness average for green and dry material 223 in.-lb (5/8-in.
specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: Seasoning properties vary with species from rapid drying
with little or no degrade to rather slow drying with a tendency to check and
split. No data available on kiln schedules. Shrinkage green to ovendry: radial
4.4%; tangential 8.5%; volumetric 13.9%.
Working Properties: Reported to be moderately difficult to moderately easy to
machine, varying with species. Steam-bending characteristics are fair to good.
Durability: Heartwood is rated durable to very durable in its resistance to both
brown-rot and white-rot fungi, but only somewhat resistant to attack by dry-wood
termites.
Preservation: Heartwood is highly resistant to preservation treatments; however
sapwood is reported as responsive.
Uses: Heavy construction, flooring, furniture, interior trim, slack cooperage,
railroad crossties. Suggested as a substitute for birch and maple.
Additional Reading (24), (25), (72), (74)
Triplaris spp.
Long John
Mierenhout
Family: Polygonaceae
Other Common Names: Palo mulato (Mexico), Hormigo (Costa Rica), Palo hormiguero
(Panama), Palo santo (Colombia), Vara de maria (Venezuela), Mierenhout (Surinam),
Long John (Guyana), Tangarana (Peru), Formigueira (Brazil).
Distribution: Southern Mexico, through Central America, and tropical South
America. In Surinam the tree is dominant in swamps and frequent on low
riverbanks. Sometimes forming almost pure stands on abandoned clearings.
The Tree
A medium-sized tree, becoming 70 ft tall and 18 in. in diameter; the bole is
slightly angled or fluted and has low narrow buttresses. Hollow stems are
inhabited by small vicious ants which emerge quickly and attack anyone molesting
the tree.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Sapwood not distinct from heartwood which is a pale gray
brown to pinkish brown. Luster medium; texture medium to moderately coarse; grain
straight or slightly interlocked; without distinctive odor or taste.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) varies with species
from 0.50 to 0.62; air-dry density 38 to 48 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First set of data based on the 2-in. standard, second and
third sets on the 1-in. standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
15% (34) 13,230 1,880 7,040
12% (24) 15,000 2,020 8,000
12% (41) 18,300 8,100
Janka side hardness at 12% moisture content 1,040 to 1,820 lb. Forest Products
Laboratory toughness for dry material varied from 121 to 186 in.-lb. (5/8-in.
specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: Drying reported to vary from fairly slow to rapid,
depending on species, with medium warping and checking Kiln schedule T6-D2 is
suggested for 414 stock. Shrinkage green to ovendry: radial 3.5%; tangential
8.6%; volumetric 12.3%.
Working Properties: Machines well in all operations, but rated only fair in
turning.
Durability: Not resistant to attack by decay fungrregular; without distinctive odor
or taste.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) varies with species
from 0.42 to 0.65; air-dry density 31 to 50 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (1-in. standard)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
12% (41) 11,200 6,000
Janka side hardness at 12% moisture content 770 lb. Forest Products Laboratory
toughness at the same moisture content 96 in.-lb (5/8-in. specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: Reported to air-dry rapidly. No data available on kiln
schedules or shrinkage properties.
Working Properties: Reports vary from abrasive and difficult to work to machines
without difficulty and finishes smoothly.
Durability: Graveyard tests in Venezuela indicate the wood to be very susceptible
to attack by decay fungi and insects.
Preservation: High chemical absorptions for both heartwood and sapwood are
reported using either a pressure-vacuum or open-tank system, penetrations were
vascular.
Uses: Suggested as a veneer for plywood and scaffolding in Venezuela.
Additional Reading (41), (56)
Vatairea spp.
Bitter Angelim
Faveira
Family: Leguminosae
Other Common Names: Amargoso (Honduras), Amargo amargo (Panama), Arisauru,
Yaksaru (Guyana), Mora (Nicaragua), Gele Kabbes (Surinam), Angelim, Faveira
(Brazil).
Distribution: Southern Mexico, southward along the Atlantic region of Central
America, and through Venezuela to the Rio de Janeiro region of Brazil.
The Tree
Sometimes to a height of 125 ft with trunk diameters to 6 ft, commonly to 3 ft,
boles have narrow high buttresses and may be clear for 70 ft.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood yellow, becoming orange brown on exposure,
striped with parenchyma, sometimes with oily appearance; distinct from the
whitish, grayish, or brownish-yellow sapwood. Luster variable; texture coarse to
very coarse; grain straight to strongly interlocked; without distinctive odor but
with bitter taste. Silica content of 0.2% is reported.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) varies with species
from 0.55 to 0.64; air-dry density 42 to 49 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (2-in. standard)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (25) 10,300 1,700 5,020
12% 14,600 1,790 6,950
12% (44) 17,200 2,340
15% (34) 11,520 1,460 5,900
Janka side hardness for dry material 1,080 to 1,420 lb.
Drying and Shrinkage: The wood is reported to have a moderate air-drying rate
with little or no drying defects. No data available on kiln schedules. Shrinkage
green to ovendry: radial 3.4%; tangential 7.4%; volumetric 8.6%.
Working Properties: Generally reported to be moderately good in machining
characteristics but torn and raised grain in planing is common. Fine dust raised
during working affects some operators.
Durability: Heartwood is rated as moderately durable to durable based on
graveyard tests.
Preservation: Heartwood is reported to be very difficult to preserve, treatment
of sapwood is good.
Uses: Construction work, flooring, general carpentry, railroad crossties.
Additional Reading (25), (34), (44)
Virola spp.
Banak
Baboen
Family: Myristicaceae
Other Common Names: Sangre, Palo de sangre (Guatemala, Honduras), Sangredrago
(Nicaragua), Fruta dorada (Costa Rica), Miguelarillo (Panama), Sangre de toro
(Colombia), Camaticaro (Venezuela), Baboen (Surinam), Bicuiba (Brazil), Cumala
(Peru).
Distribution: Varying with species from Belize and Guatemala southward to
Venezuela, the Guianas, the Amazon region of northern Brazil, southern Brazil,
and on the Pacific Coast, to Peru and Bolivia; common in swamp and marsh forests.
The Tree
May reach a height of 140 ft with trunk diameters of 5 ft, usually much shorter
and only 2 to 3 ft in diameter. Boles are heavily buttressed, cylindrical, and
clear for more than two-thirds of total height.
The Wood
General Characteristics: On drying and exposure, heartwood becomes a pinkish
golden brown or deep reddish brown; sapwood cream to tan color, not always
sharply demarcated. Luster low to medium; texture rather coarse; grain straight;
without distinctive odor or taste.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) varies considerably
with species from about 0.36 to 0.61, commonly 0.44; air-dry density 27 to 46
pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First set of data based on the 2-in. standard, the second
set on the 2-cm standard, and the third set on the 1-in. standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (73) 5,600 1,640 2,390
12% 10,950 2,040 5,140
Green (42) 6,520 1,380 3,180
12% 11,450 1,610 5,950
12% (24) 7,780 1,280 4,740
Janka side hardness for dry material 450 to 640 lb. Forest Products Laboratory
toughness average for green and dry material 61 in.-lb (5/8-in. specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: Generally reported to be difficult to season with a strong
tendency to warp and check as well as collapse and honeycomb; thick stock slow
to dry. Kiln schedule T3-C2 suggested for 4/4 stock and T3-C1 for 8/4. Shrinkage
green to ovendry: radial 4.6%; tangential 8.8%; volumetric 13.7%.
Working Properties: Works easily with both hand and machine tools and produces
a good finish, glues well; cuts well into veneers.
Durability: The wood is not resistant to attack by decay fungi and is very
susceptible to attack by termites and other insects. Logs require prompt
conversion or water storage to prevent damage by pinhole borers. Bacterial attack
resulting in the formation of odoriferous compounds is also reportvariable with species; yellowish brown, deep
brown, olive green, or olive brown; usually not sharply demarcated from the
whitish, yellow, or pale brown sapwood. Luster low to high; texture rather fine
to moderately coarse; grain straight, sometimes irregular; without distinctive
odor or taste. A silica content of 0.76% is reported.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.52 to 0.60; air-
dry density 40 to 46 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First and third sets of data based on the 2-in. standard,
the second set on the 1-in. standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (74) 9,420 1,490 4,780
12% 12,890 1,570 7,010
12% (24) 17,700 2,400 10,900
12% (44) 16,600 2,040
Janka side hardness at 12% moisture content 1,160 lb. Forest Products Laboratory
toughness average for green and dry material 108 in.-lb (5/8-in. specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: Reports are variable, material from Panama had a moderate
drying rate and no appreciable defects; V. gaumeri from Belize is somewhat
difficult to season with a moderate amount of crook and checking. No data
available on kiln schedules. Shrinkage from green to ovendry: radial 3.2%;
tangential 6.4%; volumetric 10.4%.
Working Properties: Easy to work with both hand and machine tools though there
is some tearing if grain is irregular; takes a high polish; v cooper; splits
readily while V. gaumeri is very difficult to split.
Durability: Depending on species, varied from moderately durable to very durable
when exposed to a white-rot and brown-rot fungus. Actual field exposures show
some species as durable and others as susceptible to attack by decay fungi and
insects.
Preservation: Heartwood is not treatable, sapwood has good absorption and
penetration of preservatives using either a pressure-vacuum or open-tank system.
Uses: Furniture, millwork, veneer and plywood, general carpentry, mallet heads,
chisel handles (V. gaumeri), flooring.
Additional Reading (24), (41), (44), (74)
Vochysia spp.
Yemeri
Quaruba
Family: Vochysiaceae
Other Common Names: Corpus (Mexico), Yemeri (Belize, Nicaragua), Corosillo
(Panama), Dormilon (Colombia), Tin-tin (Venezuela), Kwari (Surinam), Kouali
(French Guiana), Chambo caspi (Peru), Quaruba (Brazil).
Distribution: Throughout tropical America from southern Mexico to Peru but most
abundant in the Guianas and Brazil. The trees make their best growth on coastal
plains and along waterways, forms almost pure stands on abandoned farms.
The Tree
Varies with species, commonly 100 ft in height with diameters of 24 in.; however
trees to a height of 190 ft and diameters up to 6 ft are reported. Boles are
sometimes basally swollen or buttressed, cylindrical, and clear.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood a dull uniform pink, pinkish brown golden
brown; not always sharply demarcated from the whitish to yellowish sapwood.
Luster medium to high; texture is moderately coarse; grain slightly to highly
interlocked; without distinctive odor or taste. Vertical traumatic gum ducts may
occur sporadically and are sometimes considered as an objectionable defect.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) varies with species
from 0.37 to 0.57,commonly close to 0.40; air-dry density ranges from 28 to 43
pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (2-in. standard)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (74) 6,120 1,220 2,760
12% 9,090 1,390 5,840
Green (25) 6,300 1,250 3,000
12% 11,300 1,670 5,550
Janka side hardness at 12% moisture content ranges from 530 to 680 lb. Forest
Products Laboratory toughness average for green and dry wood is 97 in.-lb (5/8-
in. specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: Air-drying rates range from slow to rapid, prone to warp
with some checking. Collapse occurs in thick stock. Quartersawing is suggested
to minimize degrade. Kiln schedule T2-D4 is suggested for 4/4 stock and T2-D3 for
8/4. Shrinkage green to ovendry: radial 3.2%; tangential 10.8%; volumetric 13.0%.
Working Properties: The wood is easily worked by either hand or machine tools but
raised and woolly grain are common defects; takes glue, paint, and nails well and
polishes to a good finish. The wood has a tendency to blunt cutting edges.
Durability: Variable in decay resistance, generally reported to be susceptible
to attack by fungi as well as insects.
Preservation: Both heartwood and sapwood are readily impregnated with
preservatives.
Uses: Carpentry, utility plywood, furniture components, interior trim, millwork.
The wood is suggested as a substitute for Cedrela.
Additional Reading (25), (44), (46), (74)
Vouacapoua americana
Wacapou
Acapu
Family: Leguminosae
Other Common Names: Bruinhart (Surinam), Sarabebeballi (Guyana), Wacapou (French
Guiana), Acapu (Brazil).
Distribution: Surinam, French Guiana, and the State of Para in Brazil. Occupies
noninundated lands in upland forests.
The Tree
A canopy tree with small buttresses and usually a somewhat fluted lower trunk;
boles clear to 50 to 75 ft; mostly not more than 24 in. in diameter but at times
reaching 36 in.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood dark brown or reddish brown, deepening upon
exposure, figured with fine parenchyma lines; sharply demarcated from the nearly
white sapwood. Luster medium to rather low; texture uniformly coarse; grain
fairly straight to irregular; dry wood has no distinctive odor or taste.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.79; air-dry
density 59 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (2-in. standard)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing
strength
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psi 1,000 psi Psi
Green (73) 15,850 2,620 9,170
12% 21,640 2,530 11,480
Janka side hardness for green material 1,610 lb, 1,730 lb at 12% moisture
content. Forest Products Laboratory toughness average for green and dry material
203 in.-lb (5/8-in. specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: Moderately difficult to dry with slight warping in the form
of cup and twist and slight checking. A modified T7-B3 schedule is used in
Surinam for 4/4 stock. Shrinkage from green to ovendry: radial 4.9%; tangential
6.9%; volumetric 13.0%.
Working Properties: Moderately difficult to work because of density; machines to
smooth surfaces, but there is some rough and torn grain in boring and mortising.
Takes glue well.
Durability: Very durable in resistance to attack by a brown-rot and white-rot
fungus, not attacked by dry-wood termites or other insects. Reports on resistance
to marine borers are variable; good resistance is noted in Panama waters.
Preservation: Heartwood is highly resistant to moisture absorption and is
probably not treatable.
Uses: Heavy construction, flooring (strip and parquet), interior trim, furniture,
cabinetwork, paneling, railroad crossties.
Additional Reading (56), (72), (73)
Zanthoxylum flavum
syn. Fagara flava
West Indian Satinwood
Family: Rutaceae
Other Common Names: Espinillo (Dominican Republic), Yellow sanders (Jamaica),
Noyer, Bois noyer (Guadeloupe).
Distribution: Lower Florida Keys, Bermuda, Bahamas, Cuba, Jamaica, Hispaniola,
Puerto Rico, and Lesser Antilles from Anguilla to St. Lucia.
The Tree
Sometimes 40 ft high with a trunk diameter up to 20 in.
The Wood
General Characteristics: Heartwood is a creamy or golden yellow darkening with
exposure; not clearly differentiated from the whitish to light yellow sapwood.
Luster high; texture fine and even; grain interlocked or irregular often with
roey or mottle figure; when freshly worked has a characteristic scent of coconut.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.73; air-dry
density 56 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: No data available.
Drying and Shrinkage: A closely related species in Surinam is reported to season
well without difficulty; otherwise no data available on drying and shrinkage.
Working Properties: Has a moderate blunting effect on cutting edges; wood tends
to ride on cutters in planing; an excellent turnery wood; takes a fine polish;
dust produced in machinery operations may cause dermatitis.
Durability: The wood is reported as nondurable, but is resistant to dry-wood
termites.
Preservation: No data available.
Uses: Cabinetmaking, fine furniture, inlays, turnery, fancy veneers, specialty
items (hand mirrors and hairbrushes).
Additional Reading (22), (43), (56)