Page 12 - OHC Hard Woods Tech Guide - 08102017

Often overlooked by those seeking the more popular exotic hardwoods - like Ipe and
Tigerwood - Cumaru is an excellent alternative to pricier hardwood products. Harvested

primarily in Brazil, most Cumaru has the reddish brown look of Ipe (the most popular
Brazilian hardwood) with a similar density and durability. Cumaru can also come with
streaks of yellowish brown, which is sometimes sold under the trade name “Brazilian

Teak”. However, Cumaru is not related to true Teak (Tectona grandis).

Cumaru is also called by the name Tonka Bean, and the tree is commonly cultivated

for its vanilla-cinnamon scented seed—the tonka bean—which contains a chemical
compound called coumarin. Coumarin has been used in perfumes since 1820, and gives
Cumaru its aroma. Cumaru lumber is extremely stiff, strong, and hard, lending itself well

to a variety of applications. The heartwood also fluoresces under a black light, which can
help distinguish it from Ipe.

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