Brazilian Redwood, Massaranduba

Scientific Name: Manilkara bidentata

Family: Sapotaceae

Distribution: Throughout Central and South America. In particular, the Guyanas, Surinam, Brazil and Bolivia.

Other Names: Bulletwood, Beefwood, Macaranduba.

Wood Description: Very consistent color and fine texture; luster medium; grain straight to slightly irregular; difficult to see grain patterns.

Sapwood: Relatively thin, white gray or yellow gray. 

Heartwood: Consistent deep red color with occasional dark striping.

Processing: Air dries slowly with substantial checking and minimal warping.  Difficult to work especially with handtools.  Has a blunting effect on cutting edges, but generally finishes smoothly. 

Durability: Heartwood is very resistant to attack by decay fungi and termites; somewhatresistant to marine borers. Extremely resistant to preservation treatments. 

Common Uses: Railroad crossties, heavy construction, bridges, decking, flooring, violin bows.