Macawood

From CAMEO
Jump to navigation Jump to search
Mexican tulipwood (Macawood - Macacauba) (Platymiscium paraense)

Description

A waxy red to brown color wood with black streaks obtained from Platymiscium pinnatum trees native to Central and South America. Macawood produces a smooth, highly polished finish. It has been used for furniture, cabinetry, veneers, and musical instruments.

Synonyms and Related Terms

Platymiscium pinnatum; macacauba; Mexican tulipwood; Hormigo; Orange agate

Physical and Chemical Properties

  • Sapwood is white to yellow and clearly demarcated
  • Heartwood color can be highly variable, ranging from a bright red to a darker reddish or purplish brown, frequently with darker stripes
  • Grain is interlocked and texture is medium to fine
  • Resistant to insects and decay.
  • Density = 55-73 pcf

Working Properties

  • Good working characteristics for both hand and machine tools, though areas of interlocked grain should be approached with care to avoid tear-out
  • Able to take a very high natural polish
  • Turns and glues well

Resources and Citations

  • Website: agroforester.com/futfor/multispecies.html