Bocote
Scientific name:
Cordia elaeagnoides
Other names:
Anacahuite
Bocote
Bois de rose
Canalete
Cordia, Light American
Cupane
Ecuador laurel
Laurel
Laurel de costa
Laurel negro
Peterebi
Salmwood
Siricote
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The species is rumoured to be spread from Mexico to Costa Rica, and is also found in Colombia, Florida, and the West Indies. (Zamora, 1989). It is reported to grow up to elevations of about 1600 feet (500 m) in the tropical dry fields of Mexico with medium annual precipitation of more or less 40 inches (1000 mm). The size of the trees is reported to vary from small to large, occasionally reaching 100 feet (30 m) in height. The trees are reported to be frequently sparsely circulated over a wide range.
Weight:
Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) ranges from 0.63 to 0.84; air-dry density 48 to 65 pcf.
Use:
Fine furniture, cabinet work, turnery, flooring, rotary and sliced veneer, and rifle stocks.
General characteristic:
Heartwood tobacco colored to reddish brown, with irregular dark brown or blackish streaks and variegations, with more or less of an oily or waxy appearance; rather sharply demarcated from the grayish or yellowish sapwood. Luster variable; texture fine to medium, grain variable; taste not typical; scent mild fragrant, at least when fresh.
Working properties:
The material is reported to be easy to plane. It responds very well to both hand and machine tools and works to yield smooth, finished surfaces in almost all machining operations. Moderately easy to saw with only slight blunting effect on saw edges. good gluing, nailing, screwing; smooth and clean surfaces sanding.
Drying and shrinkage:
The wood is difficult to dry; readily develops surface checking and end splitting. Kiln schedule T6-D2 is suggested for 4/4 stock and T3-D1 for 8/4. Shrinkage green to ovendry: radial 4.0%; tangential 7.4%; volumetric 11.6%. Holds its place well when manufactured.
Durability:
Durability is rated high. Canalete is reported to have a high resistance to decay. The heartwood is reported to resist preservative treatment, but the sapwood is treatable.
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