English name: Bloodwood
Latin name: Brosimum rubescens
Family: Moraceae
Genus: Brosimum
Other name(s): Satine, Rhodesian Teak, Zambesi Redwood
Features: Heartwood is a medium reddish brown, commonly with black streaks. Sharply defined sapwood is a pale pinkish yellow. Grain is straight to interlocked, with a fine, even texture and low natural luster.
Trees and distribution: Large trees, up to 15m, more than 0.3m in diameter, distributed in primarily Zimbabwe (formerly Rhodesia) and other countries in southern Africa
Material: Rated as very durable; good insect resistance, though sapwood is prone to insect attack. Can be difficult to work because of high cutting resistance—saws slowly, and has a tendency to ride up over jointer knives. Also, due to its high silica content, cutting edges become severely blunted. However, the wood is stable in service, and glues, turns, and finishes well. No characteristic odor.
Applications: Flooring, veneer, millwork, fretboards, and turned objects.
