Lacewood

Scientific name:
Cardwellia sublimia

Other names:
Silky oak
Australian silky-oak
Lacewood
Northern silky oak
Queensland silky oak
Selano

The species is reported to be native to Queensland, Australia, especially in the northern coastal areas. Supplies are reported to be adequate for local consumption in Australia, but high shipping costs limit its availability on the U.S. and European markets. The tree is reported to be tall and straight, attaining heights from 100 to 120 feet (30 to 36 m), and trunk diameters of up to 48 inches (120 cm).

Weight:
Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.53; air-dry density 33 pcf.

Use:
Furniture, paneling, and similar decorative uses.

General characteristic:
The tree is of tall and straight with heights of 100ft with a trunk diameter of 48″. It is Reddish-brown color with a moderately coarse even texture. Wood matures to a brownish color with age. The grain is straight with large rays; rays are especially visible on quartersawn Lacewood.

Working properties:
Good workability but a reduced cutting angle should be used when planing. The rays on quartersawn Lacewood may tend to tear out. Use sharp cutters and a reduced angle of about 20 degrees.

Drying and shrinkage:
Dries slowly and can be difficult to season. Careful air-drying followed by a mild kiln drying is recommended. Checks, distortion, and splitting, especially in thicker stock, are expected. Kiln Schedule T3-C2 is suggested for 4/4 stock and T3-C1 for 8/4. Shrinkage green to ovendry: radial N/A; tangential N/A. Its stability is moderate after drying. Medium movement is to be expected in use.

Durability:
The wood is reported to have fair resistance to decay and high resistance to wear. The heartwood is reported to be moderately resistant to chemical treatment but the sapwood is permeable.

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