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Metopium brownei
THE TIMBER:
The heartwood of chechen is a deep brown, almost of the hue
of black walnut. The sapwood is yellowish-brown and is sharply
demarcated from the heartwood. It is often variegated from
red with a greenish tint
and a golden luster to plain brown. When slab-cut, many of
the pieces show an extremely attractive grain pattern.
The wood has no distinctive odor or taste. it is very hard
and strong.
WORKABILITY:
While the wood is extremely hard, it is workable with sharp
tools, takes glue effectively and can be polished to a fine finish. Chechem
seems to be similar to hard maple in workability but is a bit more stringy.
USES:
Contemporary uses include poles for native structures and
furniture making. Timber merchants are exploring other uses, and it appears
to have potential for cabinets, turnery and musical instruments. |
