Page 11 - OHC Hard Woods Tech Guide - 08102017

TIGERWOOD

CHARACTERISTICS

Common Name(s) Workability

Tigerwood, Goncalo Alves, Jobillo Tigerwood (Goncalo Alves) is generally not too difficult to

Scientific Name work, despite its high density. Figured pieces with irregular
Astronium graveolens grain can pose a challenge in planing and machining
operations. Goncalo Alves can also have a moderate
Distribution blunting effect on cutters. The wood is very resistant to

From Mexico southward to Brazil
moisture absorption, which can make it difficult to glue.
Tree Size Goncalo Alves turns and finishes well.
100-130 ft. tall with a 3-5 ft. trunk diameter
Odor
Color/Appearance No characteristic odor.
Heartwood is typically a medium reddish brown with Allergies/Toxicity

irregularly spaced streaks of dark brown to black, giving it Although severe reactions are quite uncommon, Goncalo
the look of tiger stripes. The color darkens with age if not Alves has been reported as a sensitizer. Usually most

properly sealed.
common reactions simply include eye and skin irritation.
Grain/Texture Sustainability

Grain can be straight, but is usually wavy or interlocked. This wood species is not listed in the CITES Appendices or
Fine, uniform texture with good natural luster.
on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
Endgrain Common Uses

Diffuse-porous; medium pores in no specific arrangement; Decking, siding, soffits, flooring, veneers, furniture,
solitary and radial multiples of 2-3; tyloses and other cabinetry, carving, turned objects, and other small wood

heartwood deposits common; growth rings indistinct; rays specialty objects such as: pool cues, archery bows, knife
visible without lens; parenchyma vasicentric.
handles, etc.
Rot Resistance
Tigerwood has excellent weathering properties, and is

rated as very durable regarding decay resistance.

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OHC Hard Woods Tech Gd.indd 11 8/10/17 1:31 PM