Other Common Names:

Botanical Name:
Dalbergia retusa

Family:
Leguminosae

Mature Tree Height, Diameter:
45-68 ft , 2 ft

Weight @ 12% M/C:
62-76 lbs./ft.3

Working Properties:
Excellent machining characteristics, natural oils give good polish.

Growing Regions:
Southwestern Mexico to Panama

General Characteristics:
Deep rich orange red with black striping, texture fine, oily, grain straight to interlocked, fine dust may cause skin rash.

Uses:
Handles, inlay work, brush backs, musical and scientific instruments, jewelry boxes, chessman and other specialty items.

Acceptable Substitutes:
Various Rosewoods, Granadillo

References:
"Tropical Timbers of the World", USDA Handbook #607, Sept. 1984, p. 66

Discussion:
This is considered by some to be the most attractive of all the exotic woods -- the supply is limited.