Goncalo Alves (Astronium fraxinifolium)

 

Family - Anacardiaceae

 

Distribution - Central and tropical South America, mainly Brazil.

 

Other Names: Bois de zebre, Bossona, Bototo, Coubaril, Gateado, Gomavel, Guarabu bata / encirado / rajado, Gusanero, Jejuira, Kingwood, Locustwood, Muira, Muiraquatiara, Mura, Rajado branco, Red astronium, Robel gateado, Sangue, Tigerwood, Urunday, Urunday-para, Yoke, Zebrawood, Zorrowood

 

Characteristics: The timber is reddish-brown in colour, richly mottled with darker spots and streaks.  It has a medium texture, irregular and somewhat interlocking grain, often with broad contrary layers of hard and soft material.  It weighs about 950 kg/m3 when dried.

 

Working Qualities: It is a difficult timber to work, but finishes with a high natural polish. It turns well.

 

Uses: High class furniture, cabinet making, fancy goods, musical instruments and turnery.