Machiche

Botanical Name

Lonchocarpus spp.

Other Common Names

Black Cabbagebark

Region

Tropical America

The Tree

Trees can grow-100 feet, with a diameter of 2-3 feet. Machiche can have a bland appearance, though finishing the wood serves to bring out the fine, light-colored parenchyma bands, giving the wood a bit of character.

Appearance

Heartwood varies from light brown to dark reddish brown. Due to wide bands of parenchyma in the wood structure, it has patterns of thin, light-colored lines. Yellow sapwood is easily distinguished from heartwood.

Properties

Grain can be straight, irregular, or interlocked, with a course texture.

Working Properties

Despite its high density, Machiche is easy to work. Like most interlocked/irregular grain, care must be taken to avoid tear out; but machining results are generally good. Turns, glues, and finishes well.

Uses

Decking, flooring, furniture, as well as heavy construction.

Availability

Machiche is occasionally available in lumber form for general woodworking purposes. Prices should be moderate for an imported species.