Guarea

Description

A light red color, mahogany type wood obtained from two species of Guarea trees (Guarea cedreta and Guarea thompsonii) native to western Africa. Guarea wood is heavy with a fine texture and little figuring. The wood is used for cabinetry, furniture, veneers and turned pieces. Guarea is resistant to dry rot but may be susceptible to some wood boring insects.

Synonyms and Related Terms

Guarea cedreta; Guarea thompsonii; undianuno branco (Port.); bosse; Nigerian Pearwood; Nigerian Cedar

Physical and Chemical Properties

• Color: Heartwood is pale pinkish brown and darkens with age; Sapwood is pale yellow producing highly figured wood
• Grain/Texture: Grain varies from straight to waavy; texture is medium fine with good natural luster
• Durability: Good resistance to decay, insects and weather
• Odor: Distinctly cedar-like when worked
• Density = 39 ppcf

Working Properties

• Results may vary depending upon the grain of the wood: interlocked and/or quartersawn pieces can pose a difficulty planing, with tearout being common.
• Silica is present in this wood, causing cutting edges to blunt and dull at an increased rate.
• Glues, turns, and finishes well.

Resources and Citations

• The Wood Database: Guarea sp.