 SWIETENIA
MACROPHYLLA
Bigleaf mahogany
Also known as American mahogany or true mahogany. The Spanish
call it caoba, the French acajou and it is also commonly known
as Honduran mahogany as this was the first colony to ship the
wood to
Europe in quantity. It is native to areas from Southern Mexico
through to Brazil. The
tree grows to a height of over 150ft with a diameter up
to 6ft, it is one of the most impressive trees of the rain
forest.
THE
TIMBER
This wood is quite variable, ranging from light
tan to 'mahogany' red. It can be soft as poplar
or as hard as oak. True mahogany can be identified
by its storied rays - on the flat-sawn surface short
dark flecks tend to form wavy horizontal bands
across the board.
USES
Durability of course is excellent with superb wearing qualities
beloved of boat builders. It is also one of the finest cabinetry
woods in the world, outstanding in virtually all processes
including turning cutting sanding and shaping. It accommodates
virtually all finishing methods.
Wentworth of the Carolinas SAYS:
It's called the wood for yachtsmen. Mahogany has such a
rich, classic look that stands on its own.
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