Burkea

Burkea africana

Family:

Other Names: Mucarala, mgando, maccarati, siri.
Distribution: The species Burkea africana can be found in East African regions of sub-Saharan Africa.

The Tree: The tree grows to a height of 50-70 ft (15.2-21.3m), with a diameter of 12-24 in. (30-61mm) with boles that average 15-20 ft (4.6-6.1m) in length.

The Timber: The heartwood is of variable reddish-brown color, with darker longitudinal stripes. Figure with slight traces hardly visible. Moderately lustrous. Has an interlocked grain and a fine to medium texture.

Seasoning: Dries well but with a slight tendency to splitting and distortion. The wood is dimensionally stable after seasoning, and retains its shape well.

Durability: Durable; resistant to insects and fungal attack. Heartwood has a high natural resistance to decay in contact with the ground. Moderately permeable to preservative treatments.

Workability: Somewhat difficult to saw and plane giving a rather rough surface. Sands well. Resistant to nailing, pre-boring required. Takes polish and varnish well.
Uses: Used as structural beams in construction, marine timber and for carpentry. Also recommended for decorative plywood, furniture, kitchen cabinets, and flooring.