|
Family: Euphorbiaceae
Other Names: Muave, muari, mucuruco.
Distribution: The tree is an East African wood occurring southwards from Tanzania to the northern part of South Africa.
The Tree: The tree grows to a height of 100 ft (30m) with a diameter of 2-3 ft (60-90cm). It develops a straight bole that is often clear of branches for the first 50 ft (15.24m).
The Timber: The sapwood is yellow-white in color and is not sharply demarcated from the heartwood. Heartwood light brown or brown sometimes slightly pink or reddish tinge with darker markings. Growth rings distinct and wavy causing a fine streaked figure. Medium lustrous. Grain wavy and irregular sometimes straight. Very fine texture.
Seasoning: Dries slowly with a tendency to surface checking. Medium movement in service.
Durability: Very resistant to fungal and insect attack including termites. However, standing trees are liable to attack by fungus which damage the structure of the wood. Very difficult to treat with preservatives.
Workability: Hard to saw and plane. Cannot be nailed or screwed without pre boring. Glues well and can be sanded to an excellent finish. The wood turns very well. Takes an excellent finish and polish.
Uses: Used principally for flooring. Also suitable for some marine uses, turnery, furniture and interiors.
|
|
