Malawian Cedar (Widdringtonia whytei)

 

Family - Cupressaceae

 

Distribution - Malawi on Mount Mulanje

 

Other Names: Mkungusa, Mlanje Cedar, Mlanje Cypress

 

Characteristics: The sapwood is narrow and is paler than the heartwood which is a clear pink-brown with darker fine, narrow, curly bands.  It has a straight grain with a fine even texture. The timber weighs about 480kg/m3 when dry.  The timber is fragrant and is resistant to borer, termite and fungal attack.

 

Working Qualities: Easy to work. Saws cleanly and evenly due to oil content, holds nails well.

 

Uses: Furniture, kists, linen cupboards, wardrobes.